Knowledge, Attitude And Perception Of Health Workers Towards The Ebola Virus Disease At Tema General Hospital, Ghana

Abstract

This study was set out to identify the knowledge, attitude and perception of health workers about EVD. It also explored the level of preparedness and work habits in dealing with EVD. The study utilised qualitative research method design and it involved purposely selected Medical Doctors, Physician Assistant, Midwives, General Nurses, Orderlies and Mortuary Attendants as study participants. Following the analysis of the qualitative information from participants, the study found that the level of knowledge of health workers about EVD was considerably high. Many health workers interviewed showed understanding of the causes of EVD, the critical signs and symptoms of EVD and the mode of transmission. However few of the health workers (such as Mortuary Attendants) erroneously associated EVD with airborne disease. The study also found mixed attitude of health workers towards EVD. Whilst some health workers showed positive attitude towards EVD, there were few staff who indicated resigning from the hospital should there be a confirmed case of Ebola. There were also mixed perceptions about EVD. Whilst some believed there is a high risk of EVD outbreak in Ghana, there were those who expressed the view that there is a minimal risk of EVD infection considering the level of education and sensitisation that have been offered across the country. It was also found that some level of preparations have been done to manage EVD at the Tema General Hospital in the form of the establishment of Ebola Isolation Centre coupled with the formation and training of Ebola Response Team. However, it was further revealed that the centre has not been adequately resourced with PPE to be able to effectively deal with EVD. In view of these findings, the study recommended further education on EVD and provision of adequate PPEs to the Ebola Isolation Centre.