Examination of Healthcare Workers’ Knowledge, Attitudes, and Behaviors Regarding the Pandemic

Abstract

Aim: This study examined healthcare workers’ knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors towards the pandemic. Material and Method: This descriptive study involved 546 healthcare workers, with data collected through an information form. Results: The results indicated that most participants engaged in training and information sessions related to the COVID-19 pandemic, utilized trustworthy information sources, and did not consistently receive the influenza vaccine. 41.8% of the participants worked in the health sector during the influenza A (H1N1) pandemic. It was statistically significant that the participants had children getting influenza vaccinations and worked actively during the influenza A (H1N1) pandemic. Those who worked in the healthcare sector during the influenza A (H1N1) pandemic saw themselves as competent in terms of the risks of influenza and COVID-19 pandemics, ways of protection, patient management, had less anxiety during patient management, and influenza vaccine and antiviral treatment statistically significantly reduced anxiety. It was determined that they defined the lack of effective vaccine or antiviral treatment for COVID-19 as a factor that increased their stress during the study. Conclusion: It was determined that the knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors of the participants towards the pandemic were at an adequate level and that past pandemics, having children, and pandemic treatment were factors affecting the level of knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors. In the pandemic, the continuity of education and supporting the strengths of healthcare workers are recommended, so more comprehensive and qualitative studies on the subject are recommended. Also, It is advised to incorporate pandemic-related topics into training programs.

Keywords

• pandemic
• healthcare workers
• education
• knowledge

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