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Patients' understanding of tetanus immunisation
F Davies1, L C Luke, P Burdett-Smith
1Department of Accident and Emergency Medicine, Royal Liverpool University Hospital, United Kingdom.
Journal of Accident & Emergency Medicine
|July 1, 1996
Summary
Many patients misunderstand adsorbed tetanus toxoid (ATT), often believing it is an antibiotic. Education is needed to improve patient understanding of ATT
Area of Science:
- Medical Research
- Public Health
- Immunology
Background:
- Adsorbed tetanus toxoid (ATT) is administered in accident and emergency (A&E) settings.
- Patient comprehension of ATT's function is crucial for effective treatment and prevention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess patient understanding of adsorbed tetanus toxoid (ATT) use in an accident and emergency (A&E) unit.
- To identify misconceptions regarding ATT's role in wound management and infection prevention.
Main Methods:
- A questionnaire was administered to 500 patients at a hospital's minor injuries unit.
- Data analysis was conducted at a 95% confidence level, with occupation used to determine social class.
Main Results:
- Over 50% of patients incorrectly believed ATT is an antibiotic.
- 81% thought ATT prevented wound infection, and 35.6% believed it negated the need for concurrent antibiotics.
- Accuracy of responses showed a significant gradient across social classes I to V.
Conclusions:
- A significant gap exists in patient understanding of ATT's purpose and limitations.
- Misconceptions may lead to reduced awareness of wound infection risks and lower compliance with antibiotic prescriptions.
- Healthcare providers in A&E and primary care should prioritize patient education on ATT immunisation.