AWARENESS AND IMPACT OF HYDROXYCHLOROQUINE PROPHYLAXIS AMONG THE HEALTHCARE WORKERS OF A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC
*Joydyeia Ferran Fernandes and Yogeeta Walke
ABSTRACT
Background: Several therapeutic agents are under study for prevention and treatment of novel coronavirus. One such agent is Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ). The objective of this study was to understand the awareness and impact of HCQ prophylaxis among the health care workers (HCWs), caring for patients with COVID-19. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on HCWs working at a tertiary care hospital of Goa Medical College. A semi structured questionnaire comprising of 22 questions was used. Data was tabulated in MS excel and descriptive statistics were performed. Results: 250 HCWs participated in the study. 100% participants had heard about the use of HCQ prophylaxis against COVID-19 infection. 60% participants agreed that there is no adequate research done on its use. 235 HCWs knew about the side effects of HCQ. 145 participants took HCQ prophylaxis, out of which only 81 participants completed the course. 38% were given medication without baseline investigations. 60% participants developed side effects. 19 participants tested positive for COVID-19, even after completing HCQ prophylaxis. Conclusion: The drug was taken by HCWs was without adequate evidence, supervision and follow up. Most of the participants were prescribed the drug by the hospital authorities without any baseline investigations. Many HCWs were not even briefed about the drug. No separate guidelines were stated for people with comorbid conditions. These are some serious concerns as HCQ is associated with serious adverse events.
Keywords: COVID-19, Hydroxychloroquine, prophylaxis, questionnaire-based study.
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