Knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding atrial fibrillation among neurologists in central China: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background: Physicians' knowledge and practice of atrial fibrillation (AF) are determinants of the efficacy of thromboprophylaxis. Hypothesis: This study aimed to investigate physicians' knowledge, attitude, and practice toward AF, to analyze the influencing factors, and to provide data to support departments that develop health policies. Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out from October 1, 2016, to March 31, 2018. A standard-structured anonymous questionnaire was completed by each participant through face-to-face interviews. Results: A total of 611 doctors from 38 hospitals were responded to this survey. The mean of the total score of the questionnaire was 21.59 ± 3.559 (total score of the questionnaire was 36), and the mean scores of knowledge, attitude, and practice were 6.86 ± 1.70, 6.13 ± 1.35, and 8.59 ± 2.21, respectively. The doctor' s knowledge, practice scores, and total scores were positively correlated with the education level and the workplace. The influencing factors that affect doctors' knowledge, attitudes, and practice scores including education level, professional title, working years, hospital grade, and hospital location. Conclusions: There was still a big gap in neurologists' knowledge and practice about AF. It is necessary to strengthen the continuous improvement of doctor training to improve the management of AF.