Tuberculosis in medical doctors – a study of personal experiences and attitudes

摘要: Background. The concurrent TB and HIV epidemics in sub-Saharan Africa place all healthcare workers (HCWs) at increased risk of exposure to Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Aim. This study explores personal experiences, attitudes perceptions medical doctors following treatment for within the system. Method. Sixty-two who were diagnosed with treated during 2007 - 2009 agreed participate complete a semi-structured questionnaire. Results. response rate was 64.5% (N=40). mean age participants 33.7 years (standard deviation ±10.6). A correct diagnosis made 7 days clinical presentation 20% participants, delayed beyond 3 weeks 52.5%. Non-routine special investigations procedures performed 26 participants. Complications invasive reported by 8 Multi-drug resistant (MDR-TB) 4 Nineteen considered defaulting on their because drug side-effects. majority (n=36) expressed concerns regarding lack infection control workplace, delays negative senior colleagues administrators. Ninety per cent indicated that illness experiences had positively changed professional approach patients current practice. Conclusion. inappropriate large number coupled towards treatment, are cause concern. results further amplify need improved educational awareness programmes among personnel (including hospital administrators), adherence national health guidelines, effective measures, pre- post-employment screening HCWs, changes part