Awareness and Preparedness of Egyptian House Officers toward COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

Background: The recent spread of coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) led to shortage of health care providers in all countries. House officers and medical students may have a role in solving this problem. Objective: The study aims to measure and discuss the readiness of Egyptian house to be part of the health system facing the current COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: A cross-sectional online questionnaire was conducted on sample of house officers from different Egyptian universities through announcement on social media groups over a period of one month during May 2020. Results: Nine-hundred seventy four Egyptian house officers participated in this study. Only 38.8% of respondent agreed to be a member of COVID-19 management team, 70.4% of participants depend on social media as a source for their information. The analysis of the results shows that participants significantly need more information about the protective measures and how to report suspected cases. Conclusions: Egyptian house officers need more training before being involved in the health care system for facing COVID-19.