أبحاث طبية / Medical Research

Study Overview : Research Objectives This cross-sectional study aims to comprehensively assess the knowledge, attitudes, practices (KAP), and readiness of healthcare providers regarding dengue fever in Northern State, Sudan. Specific objectives include evaluating healthcare providers' understanding of dengue transmission, clinical presentation, and prevention; examining their attitudes toward dengue as a public health threat; assessing their current clinical and preventive practices; determining individual and facility-level preparedness to detect and manage dengue cases; and exploring their perceptions of epidemiological patterns, risk factors, and barriers to effective dengue control in the region. Methodology A facility-based cross-sectional analytical study will be conducted across all seven localities of Northern State (Dongola, Merowe, Karima, Aldaba, Al Golid, Delgo, and Wadi Halfa). Using multistage stratified sampling, approximately 420 healthcare providers (physicians, nurses, laboratory technicians, pharmacists, and public health officers) will be recruited from randomly selected hospitals and primary healthcare centers. Data will be collected using a structured, self-administered questionnaire adapted from WHO guidelines and validated KAP assessment tools. The questionnaire covers demographic characteristics, knowledge (8 items), attitudes (5 items), practices (4 items), individual readiness (5 items), facility and health system readiness (12 items), epidemiological perceptions (8 items), and barriers/solutions (2 items). Composite scores will be calculated for each domain and categorized using evidence-based cutoffs. Data will be analyzed using SPSS version 26, employing descriptive statistics, bivariate tests (chi-square, t-tests, ANOVA), and multivariate logistic regression to identify predictors of good KAP and readiness while controlling for confounders. Expected Outcomes This study is expected to reveal significant gaps in healthcare providers' knowledge about dengue diagnostics, warning signs, and case management, particularly among staff in primary healthcare centers and those without recent training. We anticipate finding moderate to low levels of individual and facility readiness, with shortages in diagnostic tools, clinical protocols, and vector control activities being commonly reported. Positive attitudes toward dengue prevention are expected, but these may not translate into consistent practices due to resource constraints and weak health system support. Significant associations are anticipated between training attendance and higher KAP scores, between facility readiness and individual provider confidence, and between years of experience and clinical competency. Healthcare providers are expected to identify limited community awareness, weak vector control, and inadequate diagnostic capacity as primary barriers. Findings will provide evidence-based recommendations for targeted training programs, resource allocation, protocol development, and strengthened surveillance systems to enhance dengue preparedness in Northern State and similar low-resource settings.

Confidentiality and Data Protection To ensure participant confidentiality and data security, the following measures will be implemented: 1. Anonymity: No personal identifiers (names, phone numbers, or facility names) will be collected in the questionnaire. Participants will remain completely anonymous. 2. Data Storage: Electronic data collected via Google Forms will be stored on password-protected accounts accessible only to the principal investigators. Paper-based questionnaires (if any) will be stored in locked cabinets at Dongola University. 3. Access Control: Only the research team (the two principal investigators and designated supervisors) will have access to the raw data. 4. Data Use: All data will be used solely for research purposes. Results will be reported in aggregate form only, with no individual or facility identification possible. 5. Data Retention and Disposal: Data will be retained securely for five years as per institutional policy, after which all electronic and paper records will be permanently deleted or destroyed. 6. Consent and Voluntary Participation: Participation is entirely voluntary, and participants can withdraw at any time without any consequences. Informed consent will be obtained electronically before participation.

Potential Risks to Participants This study poses no physical, psychological, or economic risks to participants. The questionnaire is anonymous, non-invasive, and involves no clinical procedures or sensitive personal information. Participation requires only 10–15 minutes and is entirely voluntary. No identifiable data will be collected, ensuring complete confidentiality and protection from any professional or social consequences. Risk level: Minimal to none.

Potential Benefits to Participants and Community - Participants: No direct personal gains, but participation helps healthcare providers reflect on their knowledge and practices about dengue, improving awareness and competence. - Healthcare System & Community: - Training Improvement: Identifies gaps to design evidence-based training. - Resource Allocation: Guides Ministry of Health on shortages in diagnostics, supplies, and protocols. - Preparedness: Establishes baseline for surveillance, clinical protocols, and outbreak response. - Policy Development: Supports tailored dengue prevention and control policies. - Community Impact: Better readiness ensures early detection, improved case management, and reduced morbidity/mortality. - Scientific Contribution: Fills knowledge gap on dengue preparedness in Sudan and similar low-resource settings.