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Physicians' Knowledge of the Systematic ABCDE Approach in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Rayan Qutob1, Lujain Shaher Almutairy2, Amal Meshari Altamimi2
1Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Physician knowledge of the ABCDE (Airway, Breathing, Circulation, Disability, Exposure) approach varies significantly by specialty and experience level. Tailored training is needed to improve adherence to this critical patient assessment method.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Clinical Practice Guidelines
- Emergency Medicine
Background:
- The ABCDE (Airway, Breathing, Circulation, Disability, Exposure) approach is a fundamental tool for rapid patient assessment in critical care settings.
- Understanding physician knowledge of this approach is crucial for ensuring effective emergency response and patient outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the knowledge of the ABCDE approach components among physicians in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
- To identify variations in knowledge based on medical specialty and level of experience.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study was conducted in 2023.
- An online questionnaire was administered to 165 physicians across various specialties.
- Knowledge scores were analyzed in relation to specialty, experience level, and years in practice.
Main Results:
- Overall median knowledge score was 15.0 (IQR: 10.0-20.0).
- Intensive Care and Internal Medicine physicians scored higher, while Cardiology and Anesthesiology physicians scored lower.
- Senior Registrars and physicians with 10-15 years of experience demonstrated the highest knowledge, whereas Fellows and those with less than 5 years of experience scored lower.
Conclusions:
- Physician knowledge of the ABCDE approach is diverse and significantly influenced by specialty and experience.
- There is a need for targeted educational interventions and training programs tailored to different specialties and career stages.
- Future research should explore factors influencing adherence to the ABCDE approach in clinical practice.
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