Assessment of Knowledge of Healthcare Professionals about Heat Waves and Related Conditions

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this study was to assess the knowledge of different healthcare professionals about the symptoms, risk factors and management of heat waves and related conditions.

Study Design: Cross-sectional study

Methods:In this study, data was collected from physicians, pharmacist and nurses of private and public hospitals of Karachi from July 2016 to October 2016.In this study data was collected by stratified sampling technique from 100 physicians, 100 pharmacist and 100 nurses about the symptoms, risk factors and management of heat waves and related conditions. Healthcare staffs with at least one year work experience were included for participation. Interns, trainees, volunteers and students were excluded from participation.

Result:The Mean score of Physician, Pharmacist and Nurses was 11.40, 11.43 and 9.77 respectively. The statistical test has indicated that there is difference in the knowledge of physician, pharmacist and nurses about the heat stroke and its management.

Conclusion:Heat stroke is a medical emergency that need prompt attention of patients, their families and all health care staff. The knowledge of all the healthcare staff about heat stroke and its management is necessary so that they can communicate early warning signs and its management to community and can take all precautionary measures against the epidemic of heat stroke