Knowledge, attitudes and practices of non-dermatologist health care personnel regarding scabies in Lomé (Togo)

Abstract

Background: : The aim of this study was to document the knowledge, attitudes and practices of non-dermatologist health care workers on scabies. Method: We conducted a cross-sectional study among non-dermatologist health workers in public and private health facilities in the city of Lomé. Result: Of the 163 health workers included, 90.8% had a good knowledge of the definition of scabies; and the contributing factors (lack of hygiene, promiscuity) were known by 64.4% of the respondents. Pruritus was known as a major functional sign (92.6%) and the most cited sites of scabies lesions were the interdigital spaces (76.7%) and the buttocks (62.0%). In addition, 83.4% had already diagnosed and managed a case of scabies at least once. Topical scabicides were the most prescribed (86.5%), followed by antihistamines (54.6%); and 39.6% of respondents did not treat the patient’s environment. Conclusion: The knowledge, attitudes and practices of non-dermatologist health care personnel on scabies are low. It is important to organize continuing medical education to bring them up to speed. Key words: knowledge, attitudes, practices, non-dermatologist health care personnel, scabies