Tuberculosis infection-control knowledge and practices among healthcare workers in primary health centers in Buraidah

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) regarding tuberculosis (TB) infection control (IC) among healthcare workers (HCWs) in primary health centers in Buraidah, Saudi Arabia, and to identify sociodemographic factors associated with knowledge levels. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 119 HCWs using a validated questionnaire. Knowledge was assessed using six items (maximum score: 8; ≥5 defined as good), attitude using 12 Likert-scale items (≥9 defined as positive), and practices were analyzed descriptively. Results: Mean participant age was 39.25 years; 52.1% were nurses. Mean knowledge score was 4.24 (SD ≤ 1.92), with 42.0% (n ≤ 50) categorized as having good knowledge. Correct responses were 31.9% for latent/active TB differentiation, 68.1% for transmission, and 81.5% for respiratory protection. Positive attitude was reported by 49.6% (n ≤ 59). Cough etiquette education was provided by 80.7% of participants; however, routine mask use (>75% of shifts) was reported by only 27.7%, and 26.9% reported never wearing masks. Significant predictors of good knowledge included higher educational level (p ≤ 0.045), clinical staff role (66.0% vs. 25.8% for nurses, p < 0.001), and prior TB IC training (55.0% vs. 35.4%, p ≤ 0.041). Gender, age, and years of experience showed no significant associations. Conclusion: Major knowledge and practice gaps in TB IC exist among primary HCWs in Buraidah. Targeted educational interventions for lower-performing groups (i.e., nurses and support staff) and improved IC policies are urgently needed to mitigate occupational TB risks and accelerate progress towards Saudi Arabia’s End TB Strategy targets.