Safety knowledge gaps among Ethiopian health professionals: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

Background

There are knowledge gaps regarding safety measures among healthcare professionals (HPs) in Ethiopia. Safety measures are critical for safeguarding HPs and clients.

Objective

To assess the pooled knowledge and areas of gaps related to safety measures among HPs in Ethiopia.

Methods

This systematic review and meta-analysis included published Ethiopian studies as of August 2024, sourced from June 1 to August 30, 2024. Databases included PubMed, Web of Science, Epistemonikos, Semantic Scholar, and Google Scholar. Data were extracted using Microsoft Excel and analyzed using STATA 17. A random-effects model was used to estimate pooled knowledge, and heterogeneity was assessed using the I² statistic (I² = 98.68%, p < 0.001). Publication bias was assessed using funnel plots, Egger's test (P = 0.3239), and Begg's test (P = 0.2465). We used subgroup analyses to see variation across different variables.

Results

We included 64 studies involving 23,257 HPs. The pooled knowledge was 67.19% (95% CI: 63%–72.81%). In subgroup analysis, 77.39% were aware of COVID-19 prevention measures, and 76.55% were aware of hospital-acquired infections. Knowledge was lower for HIV prophylaxis (57.12%) and healthcare waste management (56.52%). Key consistent influencing factors included training, guideline availability, work experience, professional role, and education.

Conclusions

Ethiopian HPs had moderate knowledge of safety measures and relatively low knowledge of HIV prophylaxis and healthcare waste management. We recommended standardized assessment tools, targeted training interventions, and expanded coverage to underrepresented regions.