Year: 2024 | Month: June | Volume: 14 | Issue: 6 | Pages: 156-168
DOI: https://doi.org/10.52403/ijhsr.20240624
Knowledge Level, Attitude and Practice of Blood Transfusion among Caregivers attending the Paediatric Outpatient Clinic in the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital, Nigeria
Boma Awoala West1, Jennifer Chimenka Nwosu2
1Department of Paediatrics, Rivers State University Teaching Hospital. Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, College of Medical Sciences, Rivers State University, Nkpolu-Oroworukwo, Port Harcourt, Nigeria
2Department of Paediatrics, Rivers State University Teaching Hospital. Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, College of Medical Sciences, Rivers State University, Nkpolu-Oroworukwo, Port Harcourt, Nigeria
Corresponding Author: Boma Awoala West
ABSTRACT
Background: Blood transfusion is a vital component of any health care system globally.
Aim: It was to ascertain knowledge level, attitude and practice of blood transfusion in children among caregivers.
Materials & Methods: It was a descriptive cross-sectional study carried out over 3months in the Paediatric Outpatient Clinic of the hospital.
Results: Of 160 respondents, majority were 30-39year olds 87(54.4%) with high socioeconomic class 54(37.5%). Majority defined blood transfusion correctly 113(89.4%), knew it saves lives 148(92.5%), procedure was safe 129(80.6%) but could have complications 120(75%). Most knew at least 2 complications of blood transfusion 81(50.6%). Most knew screening 139(86.9%) and compatibility test were done 139 (86.9%). Correct route of transfusion was known by most respondents 141(88.1%). Majority 136(85%) would consent to blood transfusion and 105(65.6%) would like to donate blood for use. Of 68 respondents whom blood transfusion had been prescribed for their child(ren), 55(80.9%) consented. The commonest reason for not giving consent was, their religion forbids it (36.4%) while the commonest reason for not donating blood was fear of not having sufficient blood (34%).
Majority had good knowledge (44.4%) with the commonest source of information being health workers/hospital. Mothers’ level of education, fathers’ level of education, fathers’ occupation and socioeconomic status were significantly associated with good knowledge.
Conclusion: Majority of respondents had good knowledge, consented to blood transfusion and were willing to donate blood for transfusion. Increased health education other than from the hospitals will further improve the knowledge, attitude and practice of blood transfusion among caregivers.
Key words: Blood transfusion, Knowledge, Attitude, Practice, Children