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Hu Y, Lv C, Song X, Gan Y, Wang J, Hao W, He L, Chen Y, Han X, Yan S. Current Status and Influencing Factors of Snakebite Diagnosis and Treatment Knowledge Among Medical Staff in China: A Cross-Sectional Study. Int J Public Health 2023; 68:1606601. [PMID: 38146482 PMCID: PMC10749458 DOI: 10.3389/ijph.2023.1606601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives: This study aimed to determine the current status of the knowledge of diagnosis and treatment of snakebites among medical staff in China and its influencing factors. Methods: A cross-sectional survey of 12,581 medical staff was conducted in 12 provinces in China between June 2022 and February 2023. We analyzed the results using descriptive statistics, T-tests or analysis of variance, and a generalized linear model. Results: The average score of snakebite diagnosis and treatment knowledge among medical staff in China was 3.15 ± 2.15 out of a total score of 12. Through a generalized linear regression model, we found that gender, occupation, region, hospital level, work department, work tenure, training received in the diagnosis and treatment of snakebite, experience in snakebite diagnosis and treatment, availability of antivenom in the unit, and self-evaluation of snakebite treatment ability all affected the medical staff's scores of snakebite diagnosis and treatment knowledge. Conclusion: The knowledge level of snakebite diagnosis and treatment among Chinese medical staff is generally low, so it is imperative to conduct standardized snakebite diagnosis and treatment training for medical staff.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanlan Hu
- International School of Public Health and One Health, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China
| | - Chuanzhu Lv
- Emergency Medicine Center, Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Research Unit of Island Emergency Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No. 2019RU013), Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China
- Key Laboratory of Emergency and Trauma of Ministry of Education, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China
| | - Xingyue Song
- Department of Emergency, Hainan Clinical Research Center for Acute and Critical Diseases, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China
| | - Yong Gan
- Department of Social Medicine and Health Management, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Juntao Wang
- International School of Public Health and One Health, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China
- Key Laboratory of Emergency and Trauma of Ministry of Education, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China
| | - Wenjie Hao
- International School of Public Health and One Health, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China
- Key Laboratory of Emergency and Trauma of Ministry of Education, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China
| | - Lanfen He
- International School of Public Health and One Health, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China
- Key Laboratory of Emergency and Trauma of Ministry of Education, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China
| | - Yu Chen
- International School of Public Health and One Health, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China
| | - Xiaotong Han
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Emergency and Critical Care Metabolomics, Department of Emergency Medicine, Hunan Provincial Institute of Emergency Medicine, Hunan Provincial People’s Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Shijiao Yan
- International School of Public Health and One Health, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China
- Research Unit of Island Emergency Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No. 2019RU013), Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China
- Key Laboratory of Emergency and Trauma of Ministry of Education, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China
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Aron MB, Kachimanga C, Kreuels B, Mailosi B, Sambani C, Matanje BL, Blessmann J, Chunga M, Momba G, Ndarama E, Kambalame DM, Connolly E, Rosenthal A, Munyaneza F. Health care workers' knowledge on identification, management and treatment of snakebite cases in rural Malawi: A descriptive study. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2022; 16:e0010841. [PMID: 36409666 PMCID: PMC9678285 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0010841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Snakebite envenoming remains a public health threat in many African countries, including Malawi. However, there is a shortage of literature on the knowledge of Health Care Workers (HCWs) and the prevalence of snakebite cases in Malawi. We interviewed HCWs in Neno District to assess their knowledge of snake identification and management of snakebites. We further reviewed patient registers from 2018 to 2021 in all 15 health facilities in the district. We used descriptive statistics to characterize the survey population, knowledge, snake antivenom (SAV) administration, and snake identification. Using "shapefiles" from Open Street Maps, we mapped villages with snakebite cases. Of the 105 HCWs interviewed, 58% were males, and 60% had worked for less than five years. The majority (n = 93, 89%) reported that snakebite envenoming was a problem in the district. Among the clinicians, 42% said they had prescribed SAV previously, while among nurses, only 26% had ever administered SAV. There were discrepancies among clinicians regarding the dosing of snake antivenom. Significant gaps in knowledge also existed regarding snake identification. While two-thirds of HCWs could correctly name and identify venomous snake species, most (> 90%) failed for non-venomous snakes. Most (n = 100, 95%) reported that snakebite victims visit traditional healers more than the hospital. Between 2018 and 2021, the Neno District registered 185 snakebites with a yearly average of 36 cases per 100,000 population. Fifty-two percent (n = 97) were treated as an inpatient; of these cases, 72% were discharged in less than three days, and two died. More snakebite cases were recorded in the eastern part of the district. Significant knowledge gaps exist among HCWs in Neno regarding prescription and administration of SAV and snake identification, which likely challenges the quality of services offered to snakebite victims.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moses Banda Aron
- Partners In Health / Abwenzi Pa Za Umoyo, Neno, Malawi
- Research Group Snakebite Envenoming, Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Hamburg, Germany
- * E-mail:
| | | | - Benno Kreuels
- Research Group Snakebite Envenoming, Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Hamburg, Germany
- Section for Tropical Medicine, I. Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg, Germany
| | | | - Clara Sambani
- Department of Research, Ministry of Health, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | | | - Joerg Blessmann
- Research Group Snakebite Envenoming, Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Mwayi Chunga
- Partners In Health / Abwenzi Pa Za Umoyo, Neno, Malawi
| | - Grace Momba
- Neno District Health Office, Ministry of Health, Neno, Malawi
| | - Enoch Ndarama
- Neno District Health Office, Ministry of Health, Neno, Malawi
| | | | - Emilia Connolly
- Partners In Health / Abwenzi Pa Za Umoyo, Neno, Malawi
- Division of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, United States of America
- Division of Hospital Medicine, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Anat Rosenthal
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beersheba, Israel
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Senavong P, Yamamoto E, Keomoungkhoune P, Prasith N, Somoulay V, Kariya T, Saw YM, Pongvongsa T, Hamajima N. Factors associated with severe dengue in Savannakhet Province, Lao People's Democratic Republic. NAGOYA JOURNAL OF MEDICAL SCIENCE 2021; 83:749-763. [PMID: 34916719 PMCID: PMC8648533 DOI: 10.18999/nagjms.83.4.749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to describe the socio-demographic and clinical characteristics of dengue inpatients at a provincial hospital, and to identify factors associated with severe dengue. This is a retrospective study involving 402 dengue patients admitted to the Savannakhet Provincial Hospital, Lao People's Democratic Republic (Lao PDR), between January 2018 and April 2019. Socio-demographic factors, clinical signs and laboratory data on admission, final diagnosis, use of health care services before admission, admission date, and hospitalization period were collected from patient records. The number of dengue inpatients was higher in the rainy season than in the dry season. Of the 402 patients, 205 patients (51.0%) were finally diagnosed with severe dengue. Children aged <15 years had more symptoms, higher proportion of severe dengue (69.8% vs. 35.9%), and longer hospitalization (3.5 days vs. 3.0 days) than adults aged ≥15 years. In multivariable analyses, factors associated with severe dengue were nausea on admission (adjusted odds ratio=3.57, 95% CI=1.05-12.09, P=0.04) in children and persistent vomiting on admission (adjusted odds ratio=3.82, 95% CI=1.23-11.92, P=0.02) in adults. In adults, the creatinine level on admission was significantly higher in patients with a final diagnosis of severe dengue compared to the others. The proportion of severe dengue in our study was higher than that in other countries. Nausea and persistent vomiting on admission were suggested to be predictive factors for severe dengue. To reduce the incidence of severe dengue in Lao PDR, improvements in access to health care, referral system, and training of health care workers are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phetvilay Senavong
- Department of Healthcare Administration, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
,Healthcare Administration Unit, Savannakhet Provincial Hospital, Savannakhet, Lao People’s Democratic Republic
| | - Eiko Yamamoto
- Department of Healthcare Administration, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Phouvilay Keomoungkhoune
- Healthcare Administration Unit, Savannakhet Provincial Hospital, Savannakhet, Lao People’s Democratic Republic
| | - Nouda Prasith
- Public Health Office, Savannakhet, Lao People’s Democratic Republic
| | - Virasack Somoulay
- National Central Laboratory and Epidemiology, Ministry of Health, Lao People’s Democratic Republic
| | - Tetsuyoshi Kariya
- Department of Healthcare Administration, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Yu Mon Saw
- Department of Healthcare Administration, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | | | - Nobuyuki Hamajima
- Department of Healthcare Administration, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
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Rajabizadeh M, Rezghi M. A comparative study on image-based snake identification using machine learning. Sci Rep 2021; 11:19142. [PMID: 34580318 PMCID: PMC8476526 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-96031-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Automated snake image identification is important from different points of view, most importantly, snake bite management. Auto-identification of snake images might help the avoidance of venomous snakes and also providing better treatment for patients. In this study, for the first time, it’s been attempted to compare the accuracy of a series of state-of-the-art machine learning methods, ranging from the holistic to neural network algorithms. The study is performed on six snake species in Lar National Park, Tehran Province, Iran. In this research, the holistic methods [k-nearest neighbors (kNN), support vector machine (SVM) and logistic regression (LR)] are used in combination with a dimension reduction approach [principle component analysis (PCA) and linear discriminant analysis (LDA)] as the feature extractor. In holistic methods (kNN, SVM, LR), the classifier in combination with PCA does not yield an accuracy of more than 50%, But the use of LDA to extract the important features significantly improves the performance of the classifier. A combination of LDA and SVM (kernel = 'rbf') is achieved to a test accuracy of 84%. Compared to holistic methods, convolutional neural networks show similar to better performance, and accuracy reaches 93.16% using MobileNetV2. Visualizing intermediate activation layers in VGG model reveals that just in deep activation layers, the color pattern and the shape of the snake contribute to the discrimination of snake species. This study presents MobileNetV2 as a powerful deep convolutional neural network algorithm for snake image classification that could be used even on mobile devices. This finding pave the road for generating mobile applications for snake image identification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahdi Rajabizadeh
- Department of Computer Science, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mansoor Rezghi
- Department of Computer Science, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.
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Bala AA, Jatau AI, Yunusa I, Mohammed M, Mohammed AKH, Isa AM, Wada AS, Gulma KA, Bello I, Malami S, Michael GC, Chedi BA. Knowledge assessment of anti-snake venom among healthcare practitioners in northern Nigeria. Ther Adv Infect Dis 2021; 8:20499361211039379. [PMID: 34434552 PMCID: PMC8381460 DOI: 10.1177/20499361211039379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Anti-snake venom (ASV) is the standard therapy for the management of snakebite envenoming (SBE). Therefore, the knowledge of ASV among healthcare practitioners (HCPs) is essential for achieving optimal clinical outcomes in snakebite management. This study aimed to assess knowledge of ASV among the HCPs in northern Nigeria. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional study involving eligible HCPs from different healthcare settings in northern Nigeria. The participants were recruited into the study using a combination of online (via Google Form) and face-to-face paper-based survey methods. The ASV knowledge of the respondents was measured using a validated anti-snake venom knowledge assessment tool (AKAT). Inadequate overall knowledge of ASV was defined as scores of 0-69.9%, and 70-100% were considered adequate overall knowledge scores. The predictors of ASV knowledge were determined using multiple logistic regression. Results Three hundred and thirty-one (331) eligible HCPs were included in the study analysis (310 from online and 21 from paper-based survey). Overall, an estimated 12.7% of the participants had adequate knowledge of ASV. Adequate ASV knowledge was higher among physicians compared with other HCPs (21.7%; χ2 = 8.1; p = 0.04). Those without previous training on ASV (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 0.37; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.18-0.73; p = 0.004) and who have not previously administered/dispensed ASV (aOR, 0.31; 95% CI, 0.15-0.63; p < 0.001) were less likely to have adequate knowledge of ASV. Conclusion The knowledge of ASV among healthcare practitioners in northern Nigeria is grossly inadequate. Experience with administering or dispensing ASV predicts ASV knowledge. Therefore, appropriate interventions are needed to improve ASV knowledge, particularly among the HCPs, for optimal healthcare outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Auwal A Bala
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Federal University Dutse, Dutse, Jigawa 7200234, Nigeria, Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria
| | - Abubakar I Jatau
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, University of Tasmania, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Ismaeel Yunusa
- University of South Carolina College of Pharmacy, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | - Mustapha Mohammed
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia, Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Practice, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Kaduna, Nigeria
| | | | | | - Abubakar S Wada
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria
| | - Kabiru A Gulma
- School of Global Health and Bioethics, Euclid University, Banjul, Gambia
| | - Inuwa Bello
- Jigawa State Hospital Services, Dutse, Nigeria
| | - Sani Malami
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria
| | - Godpower C Michael
- Department of Family Medicine, Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, Kano, Nigeria
| | - Basheer Az Chedi
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria, Venom-Antivenom Research Project (VASP) and Nigeria-Snakebite Research and Intervention Centre (N-SRIC), Kano, Nigeria
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Duda R, Monteiro WM, Giles-Vernick T. Integrating lay knowledge and practice into snakebite prevention and care in central Africa, a hotspot for envenomation. Toxicon X 2021; 11:100077. [PMID: 34381993 PMCID: PMC8334740 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxcx.2021.100077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Revised: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The WHO has identified the goal of halving deaths and disability from snakebite envenomation (SBE) by 2030 through a four-pillar program that promotes accessible and affordable treatments, strengthens health systems, promotes community and multi-level engagement, and mobilizes partnerships, coordination and resources to advocate for global action. This initiative could accelerate multi-disciplinary research and action in central Africa, a “hotspot” for SBE, but it offers little specific guidance about anthropological research to be conducted. This commentary develops that research agenda. It surveys anthropological, ethnohistorical investigations in the central African forest to elaborate the socio-cultural and historical significance and practices around snakes and snakebites. It draws from south and southeast Asian and Latin American literatures to illustrate anthropological contributions to SBE research. It then outlines a Central African research agenda employing ethnobiological investigation of snake ecologies, participatory evaluations of humans-snake contacts, and interviews and participant-observation of local prevention and treatment practices and knowledge. This research will co-develop policies and practices with forest communities and leaders and regional and national authorities to reduce the burden of SBE. Central African forests are a hotspot for snakebite envenomation. SBE research in central Africa has not mobilized anthropological literatures or methodologies. Policies to reduce SBE burden in central Africa should build on participatory research. Policies to reduce SBE burden should be co-developed with local and national stakeholders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romain Duda
- Anthropology & Ecology of Disease Emergence Unit, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | - Wuelton M Monteiro
- School of Health Sciences, Universidade Do Estado Do Amazonas, Manaus, Brazil.,Department of Research, Fundação de Medicina Tropical Dr. Heitor Vieira Dourado, Manaus, Brazil
| | - Tamara Giles-Vernick
- Anthropology & Ecology of Disease Emergence Unit, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
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Ameade EPK, Bonney I, Boateng ET. Health professionals' overestimation of knowledge on snakebite management, a threat to the survival of snakebite victims-A cross-sectional study in Ghana. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0008756. [PMID: 33465084 PMCID: PMC7846110 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0008756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2020] [Revised: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Background According to the World Health Organization, snakebites, a common occupational hazard in developing countries accounts for an annual loss of between 81,000 and 138, 000 lives following 5 million bites of which 2.7 million results in envenomation. Since snakebite-associated morbidity and mortality are more prevalent in agricultural economies such as Ghana, health professionals should be optimally knowledgeable on how to manage the incidence of snakebites. Lack of knowledge or overestimation of a professional's knowledge can affect heath delivery especially for emergencies such as snakebites. The three rurally situated Tongu districts in South-Eastern Ghana with agriculture as the major source of livelihood for their inhabitants, are prone to snakebites. This study, therefore, brings up the need to assess whether the health professionals in these districts are well-equipped knowledge-wise to handle such emergencies and whether they can rightly estimate their knowledge with regards to snakebite management. Methodology/Principal findings Data was collected using a de novo semi-structured questionnaire administered through google form whose link was sent via WhatsApp to 186 health workers made up of nurses, midwives, physician assistants, medical doctors, pharmacists, and pharmacy technicians. This data was analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) Version 25. Association between variables was determined using the appropriate tools where necessary, using a confidence interval of 95% and significance assumed when p ≤ 0.05. This study found male health workers significantly more knowledgeable about snakebite management (11.53±5.67 vs 9.64±5.46; p = 0.022) but it was the females who overestimated their knowledge level (27.9% vs 24.1%). The medical doctors exhibited the best knowledge on snakebite management with the registered general nurses least knowledgeable. Although most professionals overestimated their knowledge, the registered general nurses were the worst at that (53.7%). Overall knowledge of health care professionals on snakebite management was below average [10.60±5.62/22 (48.2%)] but previous in-service training and involvement in the management of snakebite were associated with better knowledge. Respondents who had no previous training overestimated their knowledge level compared to those who had some post-qualification training on snakebite management (38.1% vs 7.5%). The greatest knowledge deficit of respondents was on the management of ASV associated adverse reactions. Conclusion Health workers in rural Ghana overestimated their knowledge about snakebite management although their knowledge was low. Training schools, therefore, need to incorporate snakebite management in their curriculum and health authorities should also expose health workers to more in-service training on this neglected tropical disease. World Health Organization estimates that every year between 81,000 and 138,000 die due to snake bites across the world. Mismanagement of snakebites can result in increased disabilities and death if not handled by knowledgeable health workers. This study assessed if various categories of health workers made up of professionals from the medical, pharmaceutical, and nursing categories in the three neighbouring Tongu districts in Ghana have the appropriate level of knowledge on snakebite management. Using a newly developed questionnaire, data were collected from the respondents using google forms sent to their WhatsApp platforms. Data were then analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) Version 25. Results were presented in the form of tables and association between the variables also determined. The level of knowledge of sampled health workers on snakebite was below average, especially among nursing professionals. However, those who had some previous post-qualification training on snakebite management exhibited a significant superior knowledge and least overestimated their knowledge hence policymakers should through workshops equip health workers especially the nurses on snakebites so that rural dwellers whose health care needs are mainly attended to by nurses can be better managed when they suffer snakebites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evans Paul Kwame Ameade
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine and Health Science, University for Development Studies, Tamale
- * E-mail:
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Bhargava S, Kumari K, Sarin RK, Singh R. First-hand knowledge about snakes and snake-bite management: an urgent need. NAGOYA JOURNAL OF MEDICAL SCIENCE 2020; 82:763-774. [PMID: 33311806 PMCID: PMC7719453 DOI: 10.18999/nagjms.82.4.763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Snake-bite is a well-known but fairly ignored medical problem in India. Lack of precise first aid knowledge for snake-bite is a substantial reason for its severe fatality in human beings. The present study is comprised of a pilot survey that assesses and evaluates the knowledge of people of different occupations (teachers, students, farmers, medical residents, and miscellaneous) about snakes and snake-bite management. The pilot survey was conducted through a well-structured open-ended questionnaire about experiences with snakes and snake-bites and first aid measures for accidental snake-bites. Proper knowledge of snakes and snake-bite management was either diminutive or absent in the majority of the subjects, especially amongst teachers. Even the medical professionals were not well acquainted with knowledge about snakes and snake-bite management. Only 13% knew about ‘big four’, 18% knew ‘dry bite’, and 21% of subjects knew about anti-snake venom (ASV) used in India. 39% of subjects knew about the whereabouts of traditional healer. Only 12% of subjects, mostly medical residents, knew of any bedside test for diagnosis of snake-bite, and 11% of respondents also knew of LD50 of Indian cobra. A well-timed first aid treatment is always decisive in the management of life-threatening snake-bite cases but the present survey has found that most of the study groups had inadequate and little misleading fundamental knowledge comprising regional snakes, first aid measures for accidental snake-bite, and welfare schemes for snake-bite victims. Therefore, the present study proposes to conduct more such appraisals and strengthening of education curricula on snake-bite that would surely inculcate an adequate level of primary skill in ignorant societies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saurabh Bhargava
- Department of Genetics, Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, India
| | - Kiran Kumari
- Department of Genetics, Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, India
| | | | - Rajvinder Singh
- Department of Genetics, Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, India
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Development and validation of antisnake venom knowledge assessment tool (AKAT) for healthcare practitioners. Toxicon X 2020; 8:100064. [PMID: 33319211 PMCID: PMC7726448 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxcx.2020.100064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2020] [Revised: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 11/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Antisnake venom (ASV) is the only specific and standard treatment for snakebite envenoming worldwide. The knowledge of antivenom dosage, mode of administration, availability, and logistics is essential to the healthcare practitioners (HCPs) in the management of snakebites. It is vital for the HCPs involved in the handling of ASVs to have its basic knowledge. The ASV contains proteins and can, therefore, easily get denatured if not handled appropriately, leading to poor therapeutic outcome. It is also essential for clinicians to be aware of the tendency of ASV to cause a severe life-threatening hypersensitivity reaction. There is currently no validated tool for assessing the knowledge of ASV among HCPs. Therefore, we developed and validated a tool for evaluating the HCPs knowledge of ASV. The items included in the tool were first generated from a comprehensive literature review. Face validity were conducted by presenting the drafted tool to ten experts on the subject matter. A validation study was conducted among doctors, pharmacists, nurses, pharmacy technicians, and the general public. The objectives of the study were to test the tool for content validity using the content validity index (CVI), construct validity using contrast group approach, difficulty index, readability, and reliability test using the test-retest method. We developed and validated a final tool containing thirty-three items. The tool was valid for face validity and had a scale-level (average) content validity (S-CVI/Ave) of 0.91. The ASV knowledge of pharmacists was higher than that of doctors, pharmacy technicians, nurses, and the general public (p < 0.001), thus, valid for construct validity. The readability of the tool using the Simple Measure of Gobbledygook (SMOG) was determined to be grade level 7. The test-retest analysis showed no significant difference between the mean knowledge scores measured at four weeks interval (p = 0.916), implying excellent reliability. The AKAT has demonstrated good psychometrical properties that would enable its application among a wide range of healthcare practitioners.
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Sapkota S, Pandey DP, Dhakal GP, Gurung DB. Knowledge of health workers on snakes and snakebite management and treatment seeking behavior of snakebite victims in Bhutan. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2020; 14:e0008793. [PMID: 33253152 PMCID: PMC7728388 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0008793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2020] [Revised: 12/10/2020] [Accepted: 09/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Published information on snakebite is rare in Bhutan although remarkably higher number of snakebites and associated deaths are reported from other South Asian countries. Aims and methodology Structured questionnaire was used to collect knowledge of health workers in snakebite management and health seeking behavior of snakebite victims as observed by health workers. Study was conducted in purposively sampled 10 Dzongkhags (district level administrative units) with higher incidence of snakebites. Result Heath workers scored 27–91% (with an average of 63%, SD = 14) for 52 questions related to snake identification and snakebite management. Among 118 health workers interviewed, 23% had adequate knowledge on snakes and snakebite management while 77% had inadequate knowledge. Among 32 Doctors, 63% of them scored above or equal to 75%. Health workers from Sarpang scored higher (76%, SD = 11) than those from other Dzongkhags. Snakebite victim's visit to local (traditional) healers prior to seeking medical help from hospital was observed by 75 (63%) health workers. Fifty one percent of health workers observed patients treated with local methods such as the use of black stone called Jhhar Mauro (believed to absorb snake venom), application of honey, rubbing of green herbal paste made up of Khenpa Shing (Artemisia myriantha Wallich ex Besser var. paleocephala [Pamp] Ling) and consumption of fluid made up of Neem leaf (Azadirachta indica Juss). Use of tight tourniquet as a first aid to snakebite was observed by 80% of the health workers. Conclusion Health workers lack confidence in snakebite management. Snakebite victims are likely to suffer from harmful local practices and traditional beliefs on local treatment practices. Empowering health workers with adequate knowledge on snakebite management and making locals aware in pre-hospital care of snakebites are needed to improve the pre- and in-hospital management of snakebite in Bhutan. Snakebites affect people globally including Bhutan and snakes are source of fear and excitement. Major proportion (62.7%) of Bhutanese population who thrive on agro-farming, rearing livestock, and searching forest products are at risk of snake envenomations. Deaths due to snakebites are dependent upon use of first aid type, provisions available with the health facilities, and health seeking behaviors of snakebite victims. This multi-center study was conducted to assess the level of knowledge of health workers and its association with their demographic features and health seeking behavior of snakebite victims as observed by health workers using investigator administered structured questionnaire. We included 12 hospitals and a Basic Health Unit (BHU) from 10 snakebite prone Dzongkhags with 962 (84%) snakebites from January 2013 to December 2017 in the country. Among 118 health workers interviewed, 27 (23%) had adequate level of knowledge with remaining 91 (77%) having inadequate knowledge. Male health workers and Doctors had better level of knowledge than other study groups. Health workers from Sarpang scored higher compared to those from other Dzongkhags. A total of 42% (n = 50) health workers scored below 60% (31 or less correct responses for 52 questions), which demands requirement of training and inclusion of practice-oriented courses in training curriculum of health professionals for snakebite management. Often, use of traditional medication and less frequent adherence to WHO recommended first aid measures was observed by 5% (n = 6) respondents. The adoption of non-recommended treatment practices seems to delay proper treatment resulting in gangrene and associated complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunil Sapkota
- Department of Forest Science, College of Natural Resources, Lobesa, Punakha, Bhutan
- Raise Hands Nepal, Bharatpur-15, Chitwan, Nepal
- * E-mail:
| | - Deb P. Pandey
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Parasitology, Agriculture and Forestry University, Bharatpur, Chitwan, Nepal
- School of Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Guru P. Dhakal
- Jigme Dorji Wangchuck National Referral Hospital, Thimphu, Bhutan
| | - Dhan B. Gurung
- Department of Forest Science, College of Natural Resources, Lobesa, Punakha, Bhutan
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Bala AA, Jatau AI, Yunusa I, Mohammed M, Mohammed AKH, Isa AM, Wada AS, Gulma KA, Bello I, Michael GC, Malami S, Chedi BZA. Knowledge assessment of snake antivenom among healthcare practitioners involving educational intervention in northern Nigeria: a study protocol. Ther Adv Drug Saf 2020; 11:2042098620935721. [PMID: 32944213 PMCID: PMC7466874 DOI: 10.1177/2042098620935721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2019] [Accepted: 05/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Snakebite envenoming (SBE) is an important occupational and public health hazard especially in sub-Saharan Africa. For optimum management of SBE, adequate knowledge of Snake antivenom (SAV) is very critical among the healthcare practioners in this region. Information related to the knowledge of SAV use in the management of SBE, as well as SAV logistics is scarce among the Health Care Professionals (HCPs) in Nigeria, particularly in the northern region. We therefore aimed to develop, validate and utilize a tool to assess the SAV knowlegde among HCPs in northern Nigeria. We also sought to implement and evaluate an intervention that could improve the SAV knowledge among the HCPs. Methods The proposed study will be conducted in three phases: Phase I will involve the development of the item-pool to be included in the tool, followed by a face, content validity and construct validity. The tool reliability, readability and difficulty index will be determined. Phase II will involve the utilization of the tool to assess baseline SAV knowledge among the HCPs followed by an educational intervention. Multiple Linear Regression analysis will be used to determine the factors associated with SAV knowledge among the HCPs. Lastly, Phase III which will be a repeat of Phase II to assess and evaluate the knowledge after the intervention. Discussion The study design and findings may guide future implementation and streamline the intervention of improving SAV knowledge in HCPs training and practice. Lay Summary Knowledge assessment and educational intervention of snake antivenom among healthcare practitioners in northern Nigeria: a study protocol Snakebite envenoming (SBE) is an important occupational and public health hazard especially in sub-Saharan Africa. For optimum management of SBE, adequate knowledge of snake antivenom (SAV) is very critical among the healthcare practitioners. The baseline knowledge SAV dosage, mode of administration, availability, and logistics is very relevant among healthcare professionals, particularly those that are directly involved in its logistics. It is paramount that SAV is handled and used appropriately. The efforts and advocacy for the availability for more SAV will be in vain if not handled appropriately before they are used. This study protocol aims to develop a tool, to assess SAV knowledge and effects of educational interventions among healthcare professionals (HCPs) in northern Nigeria. This protocol suggests conducting studies in three phases: (a) Development and validation of SAV knowledge assessment tool, (b) Baseline assessment of SAV knowledge assessment tool among HCPs, and (c) Development, implementation and evaluation of an educational intervention to improve SAV knowledge among HCPs in northern Nigeria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Auwal A Bala
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Federal University Dutse, Nigeria
| | - A I Jatau
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, University of Tasmania, Tasmania Australia
| | - Ismaeel Yunusa
- Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - M Mohammed
- School of PharmaceuticalSciences, University Sains Malaysia,11800 Penang, Malaysia
| | | | | | - A S Wada
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria
| | - Kabiru A Gulma
- School of Global Health and Bioethics, Euclid University, The Gambia
| | - Inuwa Bello
- Jigawa State Hospital Services, Dutse, Nigeria
| | - Godpower C Michael
- Department of Family medicine, Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, Kano, Nigeria
| | - Sani Malami
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria
| | - Basheer Z A Chedi
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria
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Bolon I, Durso AM, Botero Mesa S, Ray N, Alcoba G, Chappuis F, Ruiz de Castañeda R. Identifying the snake: First scoping review on practices of communities and healthcare providers confronted with snakebite across the world. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0229989. [PMID: 32134964 PMCID: PMC7058330 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0229989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2019] [Accepted: 02/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Snakebite envenoming is a major global health problem that kills or disables half a million people in the world's poorest countries. Biting snake identification is key to understanding snakebite eco-epidemiology and optimizing its clinical management. The role of snakebite victims and healthcare providers in biting snake identification has not been studied globally. OBJECTIVE This scoping review aims to identify and characterize the practices in biting snake identification across the globe. METHODS Epidemiological studies of snakebite in humans that provide information on biting snake identification were systematically searched in Web of Science and Pubmed from inception to 2nd February 2019. This search was further extended by snowball search, hand searching literature reviews, and using Google Scholar. Two independent reviewers screened publications and charted the data. RESULTS We analysed 150 publications reporting 33,827 snakebite cases across 35 countries. On average 70% of victims/bystanders spotted the snake responsible for the bite and 38% captured/killed it and brought it to the healthcare facility. This practice occurred in 30 countries with both fast-moving, active-foraging as well as more secretive snake species. Methods for identifying biting snakes included snake body examination, victim/bystander biting snake description, interpretation of clinical features, and laboratory tests. In nine publications, a picture of the biting snake was taken and examined by snake experts. Snakes were identified at the species/genus level in only 18,065/33,827 (53%) snakebite cases. 106 misidentifications led to inadequate victim management. The 8,885 biting snakes captured and identified were from 149 species including 71 (48%) non-venomous species. CONCLUSION Snakebite victims and healthcare providers can play a central role in biting snake identification and novel approaches (e.g. photographing the snake, crowdsourcing) could help increase biting snake taxonomy collection to better understand snake ecology and snakebite epidemiology and ultimately improve snakebite management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabelle Bolon
- Institute of Global Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Andrew M. Durso
- Institute of Global Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Sara Botero Mesa
- Institute of Global Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Nicolas Ray
- Institute of Global Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- Institute for Environmental Sciences, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Gabriel Alcoba
- Médecins Sans Frontières, Geneva, Switzerland
- Division of Tropical and Humanitarian Medicine, University Hospitals of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - François Chappuis
- Division of Tropical and Humanitarian Medicine, University Hospitals of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
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Kharusha IK, Sulaiman SS, Samara AM, Al-Jabi SW, Zyoud SH. Assessment of Knowledge about First Aid Methods, Diagnosis, and Management of Snakebite among Nursing Students: A Cross-Sectional Study from Palestine. Emerg Med Int 2020; 2020:8815632. [PMID: 33381318 PMCID: PMC7758123 DOI: 10.1155/2020/8815632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2020] [Revised: 12/05/2020] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Snakebite is a serious and important medical emergency encountered in many parts of the world. The estimated number of victims of venomous snakebites in Palestine is about 100 to 150 annually, with death occurring in 2 to 3 of them. This study was designed to assess the level of knowledge on the diagnosis and management of snakebites among nursing students in Palestine, as well as their attitude towards snakebites. METHODS This was a cross-sectional survey that took place at An-Najah National University. Two hundred nursing students were asked to fill a questionnaire that was developed to assess the participants' knowledge and attitude regarding snakebite's diagnosis and management. Different knowledge scores were calculated, and the relationships between students' knowledge and their characteristics were calculated by implementing the Mann-Whitney U test and the Kruskal-Wallis test. The statistical significance limit of p values was set at 0.05. RESULTS The majority of the participants (57%) were fourth-year students with an average age of 20.7 ± 1. Areas of knowledge and the participants' mean scores on them were as follows: Vipera palaestinae snake, 5.1/13; signs and symptoms, 9.6/16; laboratory investigations, 6.1/10; anti-venom, 4.2/11; and first aid, 6.6/15. The only statistically significant differences in knowledge were between male and female students on Vipera palaestinae (male students scored higher, p value = 0.004) and between different types of residence (village dwellers scored the highest, p value = 0.041). CONCLUSIONS We found knowledge gaps in many aspects of snakebite's diagnosis and management among nursing students in Palestine. Based on the results of this study, we suggest integrating more materials on this topic in the curriculum of Palestinian nursing schools, as well as more practical training, which will positively reflect on the care for snakebite victims.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isra K. Kharusha
- 1Department of Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, An-Najah National University, Nablus 44839, State of Palestine
| | - Suha S. Sulaiman
- 1Department of Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, An-Najah National University, Nablus 44839, State of Palestine
| | - Ahmad M. Samara
- 1Department of Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, An-Najah National University, Nablus 44839, State of Palestine
| | - Samah W. Al-Jabi
- 2Department of Clinical and Community Pharmacy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, An-Najah National University, Nablus 44839, State of Palestine
| | - Sa'ed H. Zyoud
- 2Department of Clinical and Community Pharmacy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, An-Najah National University, Nablus 44839, State of Palestine
- 3Poison Control and Drug Information Center (PCDIC), College of Medicine and Health Sciences, An-Najah National University, Nablus 44839, State of Palestine
- 4Clinical Research Center, An-Najah National University Hospital, Nablus 44839, State of Palestine
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Sulaiman SS, Kharusha IK, Samara AM, Al-Jabi SW, Zyoud SH. An assessment of medical students' proficiency in the diagnosis and management of snakebites: a cross-sectional study from Palestine. J Occup Med Toxicol 2020; 15:3. [PMID: 32099576 PMCID: PMC7031995 DOI: 10.1186/s12995-020-00254-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2019] [Accepted: 02/14/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Snakebites are emergent and life-threatening injuries that may require intensive care. Physicians face difficulties in dealing with snakebite injuries due to the knowledge gaps in the diagnosis and management of snakebites. The study aimed to assess medical students' knowledge about the diagnosis and management of snakebite injuries, as well as their proficiency in first aid methods in case of snakebite and perception regarding snakes and snakebite injuries. METHODS A cross-sectional study conducted among 200 medical students in their clinical years at An-Najah National University. A questionnaire was developed and distributed among those students. The questionnaire assessed the students' knowledge regarding the diagnosis and management of snakebites and their attitude regarding snakes and snakebites. The total scores of knowledge were obtained and tested based on the participants' demographic characteristics using the Kruskal-Wallis test and the Mann-Whitney U test. P-values of < 0.05 were considered to be statistically significant. RESULTS The mean age of participating medical students was 22.2 ± 2.4 (year). Half of these medical students were in there final year of study (sixth year). After the analysis was done, we found a knowledge deficit in snakebite diagnosis and management among medical students. The mean knowledge scores regarding Vipera palaestinae, signs and symptoms, laboratory investigations, anti-venom, and first aid were 3.8/13, 8.2/16, 6.1/10, 3.6/11 and 8.3/15 respectively for medical students. It was found that medical students in higher years of study had a higher knowledge of laboratory investigation, and males were more knowledgeable in the correct way for first aid methods than females (p < 0.036). CONCLUSIONS The level of knowledge regarding the diagnosis and management of snakebites was not good enough among most of the students. In order to improve their knowledge, snakebite diagnosis and management should be introduced and focused on in medical curriculum. Also, formal first aid training classes for medical students should be introduced in order to teach them the correct and updated methods of first aid as they will be the future health care providers and proper first aid will effectively decrease morbidity and mortality of snakebites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suha S. Sulaiman
- grid.11942.3f0000 0004 0631 5695Department of Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, An-Najah National University, Nablus, 44839 Palestine
| | - Isra K. Kharusha
- grid.11942.3f0000 0004 0631 5695Department of Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, An-Najah National University, Nablus, 44839 Palestine
| | - Ahmad M. Samara
- grid.11942.3f0000 0004 0631 5695Department of Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, An-Najah National University, Nablus, 44839 Palestine
| | - Samah W. Al-Jabi
- grid.11942.3f0000 0004 0631 5695Department of Clinical and Community Pharmacy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, An-Najah National University, Nablus, 44839 Palestine
| | - Sa’ed H. Zyoud
- grid.11942.3f0000 0004 0631 5695Department of Clinical and Community Pharmacy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, An-Najah National University, Nablus, 44839 Palestine
- grid.11942.3f0000 0004 0631 5695Poison Control and Drug Information Center (PCDIC), College of Medicine and Health Sciences, An-Najah National University, Nablus, 44839 Palestine
- grid.11942.3f0000 0004 0631 5695Clinical Research Center, An-Najah National University Hospital, Nablus, 44839 Palestine
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Subedi N, Paudel IS, Khadka A, Shrestha U, Mallik VB, Ankur KC. Knowledge of first aid methods and attitude about snake bite among medical students: a cross sectional observational study. J Occup Med Toxicol 2018; 13:26. [PMID: 30147746 PMCID: PMC6094924 DOI: 10.1186/s12995-018-0210-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2018] [Accepted: 08/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Snake bite is a neglected public health problem in tropical and subtropical region. The study was conducted with objectives to determine the knowledge of first aid methods in snake bite and the perception of snake bite among the medical students of Gandaki Medical College, Pokhara, Nepal. Methods We conducted a cross sectional survey among 302 (231 preclinical and 71 clinical) Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) students of Gandaki Medical College using a pretested questionnaire to assess the knowledge of first aid of snake bite based on WHO protocol and perception of snakebite. The study duration was from January to May 2018. The total score of the knowledge was obtained and compared among variables using Mann-Whitney U test. Chi square test was used for comparing the responses with the level of students. P value of < 0.05 was considered as significant. Results Among 302 respondents, 193(63.9%) were from Mountain districts. The families of 25 (8.3%) respondents were bitten by snakes. The correct responses were significantly higher from the 71 (23.5%) clinical students for most of the questions and the knowledge score of clinical students was significantly higher than the 231 (76.5%) preclinical students. Twenty eight (9.27%) students believed that the snake should be killed after it bites the victim and 25 (8.28%) believed that the snake will capture the image of the offender who teases it and takes revenge later. School books were the commonest source of such knowledge among the preclinical students. Conclusion Most of the preclinical students had inadequate knowledge of first aid of snake bite. The common source of the knowledge was school books which often provide faulty knowledge. Only a few students had negative perception about snakes. Incorporation of proper first aid measures in the textbooks of various levels is essential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nuwadatta Subedi
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Gandaki Medical College, Pokhara, 33700 Nepal
| | | | | | | | | | - K C Ankur
- Gandaki Medical College, Pokhara, Nepal
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