Factors Influencing Health Workers’ Adherence to Disaster Preparedness Measures:

Abstract

Introduction: Public health disasters remain a significant problem for both developed and developing countries. The occurrences of such disasters are marked by widespread morbidity and mortality. With appropriate preparedness and adherence to disaster measures, its impact can be effectively mitigated. However, information on the level of preparedness to disasters is not readily available. Objective: To assess health workers’ adherence to disaster preparedness measures at Kilembe Mines Hospital in Kasese district. Methods: The study used cross sectional study design that involved 122 respondents (health workers) at Kilembe mines hospital in Kasese district. The sample size was determined using Yamane’s formula at 5% precision. Convenience sampling method was used and data was collected by structured questionnaire, key informant interview guide and observation check list. It was entered in Epi-Info v3.3.1 and exported to STATA v12 for statistical analysis at 95% confidence level. Fisher’s exact test was used to analyze the relationship between the dependent and independent variables. Associations with probability values less than 0.05 were considered statistically significant for logistic regression analysis into odds ratios with subsequent 95% confidence intervals. Meanwhile, qualitative variables were analyzed via content analysis into themes. Results: 43% of the respondents were males and 57% were females, 52% were aged 25-34 years, 75% were clinical staff and almost 29% had worked for between 5-10 years. 6 (4.9%) had adhered to disaster preparedness measures (4.9%, 95%CI: 1.8-10.4). At bivariate analyses, none of the socio-demographic and individual factors were associated with adherence to disaster preparedness measures. However, periodic staff meetings on disaster issues (p<0.005), electrical checks (p=0.002), periodic, risk and vulnerability assessments (p<0.001) and knowledge of use of assessment results (p<.044) were significantly associated with adherence to disaster preparedness measures. Via logistic regression, conduct of periodic staff meetings on disaster issues (uOR=16, 95%CI: 2-147, p=.012) and periodic risk, hazard and vulnerability assessments (uOR=26, 95%CI: 3-231, p=.004). Recommendation: Periodic hazard, risk and vulnerability assessment and correct use of the results, periodic staff meetings on disaster issues and sensitization and training of staff on disaster preparedness and management.