Assessment of Family Tuberculosis Contact Screening Practice and its Associated Factors Among Pulmonary Tuberculosis Positive Patients in South Wollo Zone, Amhara Region, Ethiopia

Abstract

Objectives: The objective of this study was to assess the prevalence and the associated factors of family contact screening practice. Methods: An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 403 randomly selected pulmonary tuberculosis index cases from 1st May to 30th June 2020. Data were collected through a face-to-face interviewer-administered questionnaire. Multivariable logistic regression was performed. Results: The prevalence of family contact screening was 55.3%, (CI: 60–50). Having family support for care and treatment (AOR = 2.21, 95% CI: 1.16–4.21), waiting time of less than 60 min (AOR = 2.03, 95% CI: 1.28–3.21), receiving health education on TB prevention and treatment (AOR = 1.86), 95% CI: 1.05–3.29), and having good knowledge about TB prevention (AOR = 2.76, 95% CI: 1.77–4.294) were factors associated with family TB contact screening practice. Conclusion: This study revealed that the prevalence of family contact screening was low as compared to national and global targets. Factors associated with family contact screening practice were: the presence of family support, shorter waiting time, health education offered by healthcare workers, and a good level of knowledge of the index cases.