Knowledge, attitude, and practice of family medicine residents toward COVID-19 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Objectives: The aim is to evaluate the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) regarding prevention, diagnosis, and management of COVID-19 in family medicine residents in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia and also to examine the association of the residents' demographic variables with their COVID-19 KAP level. Methods: A cross-sectional survey conducted during July to August 2020 that targeted all family medicine residents who were enrolled in the Saudi board training programs in Riyadh. An online version of a specifically designed questionnaire was distributed to determine the residents' KAP toward COVID-19. Results: A total of 97 of 170 residents responded for a response rate of 57%. The most important results noted from this study are that participants had satisfactory knowledge of COVID-19; but, it was not associated with their demographic characteristics. Most participants demonstrated positive attitudes toward persons having risk factors for COVID-19 and who disclose their exposure (n = 82, 85%). Most participants exhibited good practices except participating in training programs concerning COVID-19 infection prevention and control (n = 46, 47%). Total knowledge scores were significantly affected by feeling tired, lack of confidence in defeating the virus, and persons with risk of COVID-19 infection. There was no significant association between the knowledge and practice. Conclusion: The results demonstrated that family medicine residents in Riyadh overall had good KAP on COVID-19 disease in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Such good KAP could help limit viral spread.