The Knowledge of Healthcare Professionals Regarding Post-Exposure Prophylaxis for Hepatitis B in District Quetta, Balochistan

Abstract

Background: Healthcare professionals (HCPs) are at increased risk of contracting hepatitis B due to frequent exposure to patients with the disease. Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) can effectively manage this risk. This study aimed to assess the level of awareness of hepatitis B PEP among healthcare workers in the Quetta district.

Methodology: Conducted from November 1, 2022, to November 30, 2022, this cross-sectional study targeted healthcare professionals in Quetta, Balochistan, Pakistan. Data were collected from three main public tertiary care institutions and various private hospitals using simple random sampling. A structured questionnaire covering demographic information, immunization status, and hepatitis B PEP was administered. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 19, summarizing data with frequencies and percentages. Odds ratio analysis was conducted to identify associations between awareness of hepatitis B PEP and other variables.

Results: Of the 263 participants, 181 (68.8%) were female, and 167 (63.5%) were aged 31-40 years. Most participants (88.5%) were doctors, followed by nurses and pharmacists. While 87.1% had heard of hepatitis B PEP, only 11.8% received formal training on it. Awareness of PEP components was lacking, despite familiarity with its existence. Factors associated with awareness included previous PEP knowledge, hepatitis B screening, and perceived job-related risk.

Conclusion: Although many healthcare providers were aware of hepatitis B PEP, knowledge regarding its components was insufficient. Training and education initiatives are crucial to improving awareness and understanding among healthcare professionals.