Knowledge of Blood Transfusion among Junior Medical Doctors in Kenya

Abstract

Background: Blood transfusion (BT) is crucial to the provision of modern health care. However, blood is scarce and costly, and its use is associated with risks. Therefore, the medical professionals who handle it should have adequate knowledge to ensure rational and safe utilization. The objective of the study was to determine the level of BT knowledge among junior medical doctors in Kenya. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted among junior medical doctors working in Western Kenya. Data was collected using ques- tionnaires from August 2021 to March 2022, and analysis was done by way of descriptive and inferential statistics. A p < 0.05 was considered as significant. Results: A total of 150 medical doctors participated in the study. Males com- prised 60% (n = 90), and the mean age of the participants was 29.9 (SD 3.6) with a range of 25 - 45 years. The mean knowledge score was 54.1% ± 16.4% and was associated with orientation (AOR = 3.157, 95% CI = 1.194 - 8.337). Conclusion: Blood transfusion knowledge among the doctors was suboptimal and was associated with pre-internship induction. There is a need for addi- tional education in BT during all phases of medical training and practice, in- cluding orientation for medical interns.