Background: Tuberculosis(TB) is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in India. Peripheral health workers in rural areas come in contact with TB suspects regularly during their home visits. The success of the Revised National Tuberculosis Control Programme (RNTCP) depends largely upon the involvement of these workers particularly Auxiliary Nurse Midwives (ANMs).
Materials and Methods: All the ANMs and Health Assistants attached to a block primary health center (BPHC) of West Bengal were called for a refresher training on tuberculosis and RNTCP. Medical Officer Tuberculosis Unit of the area impacted the training along with Senior Treatment Supervisor (STS) and Senior Tuberculosis Laboratory Supervisor (STLS) of the concerned Tuberculosis Unit (TU). The training was of one full day duration and conducted at the BPHC. The resource persons told them about the diagnosis and management of TB cases according to RNTCP guidelines. A pre-test questionnaire having 20 multiple choice and true/ false type questions were given to the participants. The same questionnaire was given to them after the training. The score of post-tests was compared with the pre-test questionnaire.
Results: In total 34 health workers participated in the training. 44.1% of the participants were ANM and 38.2% were Health Assistants (Female). Rest were Health Assistants (Male). The mean (SD) duration of their service was 17.79 (1.8) years. 35.3% of them had a graduate degree. The mean (SD) post-test score was significantly better than the mean (SD) pre-test score, 16.53 (1.73) vs 9.76 (1.71). There was a significant improvement in score for 12 questions.
Conclusion: With time the knowledge regarding TB and RNTCP is fading in health workers. Regular refresher training is required for the health workers to remain updated about tuberculosis.
Key words: Tuberculosis, knowledge, ANMs, health worker, training
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