Assessment of knowledge of Typhoid fever diagnosis and management amongst the interns and residents in the teaching hospital of India

Abstract

Introduction-There are estimates that typhoid fever occurs between 10/100,00 and 100/100,00 times a year, making it an important global health issue, hence the accurate diagnosis of typhoid fever at an early stage is very important for proper management. India is endemic for typhoid fever and widal is the most commonly prescribed diagnostic test in cases of fever.

Objectives-The present study was undertaken to evaluate the knowledge about the diagnosis and management of Typhoid fever amongst the interns and residents in the teaching hospital of Northern India.

Methodology-A semi-structured, self-administered questionnaire, was used in this cross-sectional study. The study population comprised of interns and postgraduate students of a medical college situated in northern India.

Results-The study included 101 participants. Data analysis showed, only 11% of the participants had good knowledge, 55.4% had moderate knowledge and 33.6% had poor knowledge about the test and the disease. However, most of the participants had good knowledge about the clinical features, treatment and availability of the diagnostic tests but only a few had thorough awareness of the proper implementation and utilization of the available diagnostic tests. Only 25% knew about the right time to order widal test for diagnosis of typhoid fever and just 60.4% knew about blood culture as the confirmatory test during the first week of illness.

Conclusion-Majority of the participants had a fair knowledge of clinical features and treatment. However, for proper patient management, correct diagnosis at the right time plays a crucial role. Education and training are essential for the utilization and application of the available diagnostic tests which are an essential component of antimicrobial stewardship.

International Journal of Human and Health Sciences Supplementary Issue 02: 2023 Page: S77-S94