Knowledge and practice of rabies post-exposure prophylaxis and animal-bite management among postgraduate trainees and faculty at a tertiary hospital in Goa: a cross-sectional study

Switzel V. Braganza; Nitin Y. Dhupdale

doi:10.18203/2394-6040.ijcmph20261781

Authors

Switzel V. Braganza Department of Community Medicine, Goa Medical College, Bambolim, Goa, India
Nitin Y. Dhupdale Department of Community Medicine, Goa Medical College, Bambolim, Goa, India

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18203/2394-6040.ijcmph20261781

Keywords:

Animal bite, Knowledge, Post-exposure prophylaxis, Practice, Rabies

Abstract

Background: Rabies is almost uniformly fatal after symptom onset but preventable with timely wound care and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP). Physicians across specialties must apply current guidance to avoid preventable deaths. This study was done to assess knowledge and self-reported practices regarding rabies prophylaxis and animal-bite management among postgraduate trainees (PGT) and faculty at a tertiary care teaching hospital in Goa.

Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted during September 2024 to October 2024 among PGT and faculty (excluding Community Medicine due to prior structured training in anti-rabies clinic protocols). A sample size of 220 was estimated using a single-proportion formula (p=0.833, d=0.05, 95% confidence) and selected by simple random sampling from an eligible roster (n=350). Participants received a self-administered online questionnaire after electronic consent. Responses were scored as correct/incorrect against the National Guidelines for Rabies Prophylaxis (2019). Descriptive statistics were reported as frequencies and percentages.

Results: Of 220 invited doctors, 146 responded (response rate 66%); 96 (65.8%) were PGT and 100 (68%) belonged to clinical departments. Correct responses were generally higher for rabies epidemiology than for clinical management domains, particularly wound management, RIG indications/dosing, pre-exposure prophylaxis, and management of re-exposure in previously vaccinated individuals (only 36/146, 25%, correct).

Conclusions: Substantial gaps were observed in practical rabies PEP decision-making and wound management despite relatively adequate epidemiologic knowledge. Regular, competency-based refreshers and protocol reinforcement across departments are warranted to support rabies elimination goals.

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