Assessment of the Level of Covid-19 Preparedness among Ghanaian Hospitals and Healthcare Workers: A Quantitative Cross-Sectional Descriptive Survey

Authors

Patrick Owusu, University of LyunchburgFollow

Specialty

Urgent Care

Advisor

Dr. Arnold

Abstract

Objectives

The following were the objectives of current study:

• To assess the level of preparedness among healthcare facilities in combating the COVID-19 pandemic in Ghana
• To evaluate the extent to which appropriate materials and equipment for combating the COVID-19 pandemic available at the disposal of healthcare workers in Ghana
• To examine the extent to which healthcare workers in Ghana are knowledgeable about the COVID-19 pandemic

Methods

A quantitative descriptive cross-sectional design was adopted to achieve the study objectives. A structured questionnaire was deployed to 487 healthcare workers in Ghana via online platforms. The survey tool was designed to measure three constructs; facility-level preparedness in terms of case management protocols, availability of appropriate materials and equipment, and general Covid-19 knowledge among the workers.

Results

There was a low level of preparedness as indicated by capacity to isolate (43%), fear among nurses (40%), standard operating procedures (32%), absence of triage (50%), and overall rating (30%). Critical equipment and materials including PPEs (15%), masks (51%), and sani

tizers (34%) were unavailable. Lastly, workers were knowledgeable on modes of spread and prevention, although over reliance on social media information was also high.

Conclusion

Preparedness for handling Covid-19 is generally low, although more research should be conducted to determine whether the situation has changed.

Recommended Citation

Owusu P. Assessment of the Level of Covid-19 Preparedness among Ghanaian Hospitals and Healthcare Workers: A Quantitative Cross-Sectional Descriptive Survey. University of Lynchburg DMSc Doctoral Project Assignment Repository. 2021; 3(1).