Physiotherapists' knowledge and the implementation of COVID-19 infection prevention and control measures

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Physiotherapists are required to recognize their role in managing patients with Coronavirus Disease-19 (COVID-19), and to adopt preventive measures to limit transmission of the disease. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to assess the perception, knowledge, and application of the preventive measures taken by physiotherapists in managing issues with confirmed or suspected patients suffering from COVID-19. METHODS: A self-administered survey comprising 15 questions was divided into four sections related to precautions when interacting with patients with COVID-19: (1) knowledge of the physiotherapy role, (2) knowledge of preventive measures to limit transmission of the virus, (3) practicing these measures, and (4) managing patients with COVID-19. RESULTS: A total of 456 physiotherapists from 139 countries participated in the study. Most physiotherapists were knowledgeable regarding their role in the management of COVID-19 patients (M=94.3%; SD=15.4) and the management of potential COVID-19 patients (M=84.5%; SD=20.1). The rating of knowledge and practices of preventive measures to limit transmission of COVID-19 were lower (M=74.3%; SD=25.7, and M=62.5%; SD=31.3, respectively). Participants from the European region (M=83; SD=15.8) had a higher score than participants from the Asia Western Pacific region (M=78; SD=18.49; P=0.01). CONCLUSIONS: Physiotherapists are highly knowledgeable about their role in managing COVID-19 patients. Most of them are adopting preventive measures to limit the transmission of the disease. Yet, physiotherapists are required to enroll in medical education, training and infection control workshops and courses to remain updated with the recent advances in such fields.