Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Physicians in Tertiary Hospitals on the Clinical Application of Pseudomonas aeruginosa Biofilm Detection

Abstract

Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilms are commonly implicated in nosocomial infections, yet the relevance of its clinical testing is poorly addressed. The study therefore aims to determine the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of physicians (dermatologists, infectious disease specialists, otolaryngologists, pulmonologists, reconstructive specialists, and urologists) in public and private tertiary hospitals in the National Capital Region on the clinical relevance of P. aeruginosa biofilm detection. The study employed a descriptive correlational research design that involved an online survey. The questionnaire utilized was adapted and modified from the study of Swanson et al. (2017) and She et al. (2015) and was subjected to pilot testing. Data was gathered though distribution of Google forms in social media and academic platforms and through e-mail while observing ethical considerations. Data was analyzed descriptively and statistically using SPSS version 25.0 software. Analysis of responses from 56 physicians revealed good knowledge (6.30 out of 8.00) on P. aeruginosa biofilms, neutral attitude (2.57 out of 5.00) towards the clinical application of biofilm detection, and moderate practice (1.77 out of 4.00) in the diagnosis and management of P. aeruginosa biofilm-associated infections. Attitude towards clinical utility was positive, but overall attitude was neutral due to anticipated obstacles for adaptation. Meanwhile, practices are moderate due to the unavailability of a standard method for biofilm detection. No statistically significant correlation among knowledge, attitude, and practice was found. Further studies are recommended to designate a definitive method for clinical use and to explore knowledge, attitude, and practices using widened inclusion criteria and standardized survey tools.