Michael Afari Baidoo
By offering quick and accurate diagnosis and treatment, Point-of-Care-Testing (POCT) devices have the potential to improve patient care. Although the vast majority of Community Health Nurses (CHNs) make use of POCT instruments, not much is known about their perceptions, attitudes and knowledge of the use of these devices. The objective of the study was therefore to investigate CHNs' knowledge, attitudes and perceptions regarding the use of POCT devices in the Effutu Municipality. The study employed a cross-sectional survey with a sample size of 100 CHNs with varying levels of education and experience. Information was gathered from the CHNs using a structured questionnaire that was created based on empirical literature. The data was analyzed after sorting and coding them onto a computer. Study results show that most CHNs had received enough training, prior knowledge and hands on experience in the use of POCT devices. The knowledge came from several places, including internet searches, professional training programs, short courses, self-study and from colleagues. Furthermore, a great majority of CHNs in the Municipality of Effutu expressed positive opinions regarding the usage of POCT devices. The CHNs recognized the potential benefits, of using POCT devices in outpatient departments and consequently valued the associated benefits such as speed, ease of use, accuracy and dependability of results that come with it. Therefore, it is imperative to promote knowledge sharing and ongoing education among healthcare professionals regarding the utilization of POCT equipment.
PDFShare this article
