The Perception of Adherence to Cystic Fibrosis Guidelines by Respiratory Therapists in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Background:

Adherence to cystic fibrosis (CF) clinical guidelines play a crucial element in the management of respiratory complication associated with CF disease. Despite the importance of adherence to CF clinical guidelines, there is a lack of literature in this area of research specifically relating to respiratory therapists (RTs). The aim of this study was to assess the adherence level of RTs to CF clinical guidelines in Saudi Arabia.

Methods:

Data were collected through a descriptive survey using questions based on CF clinical guidelines. This survey study was approved by university IRB. The survey was emailed to all members of the Saudi Society for Respiratory Care (SSRC). Two main dimensions were assessed Knowledge and Management of CF disease. Excluded from the study were other healthcare providers and students.

Results:

The total adjusted number of participants was one hundred sixty-six (n=166) out of (N=351) responses. The study response rate was 46.8%. Most participants hold an undergraduate degree (BS and AS) 80.1% while 19.9% were graduate. Females accounted for 30.1% of all participants while males accounted for 69.9%. The study showed 35% of RTs in Saudi Arabia adhered to CF clinical guidelines. The study showed knowledge domain needs improvement compared to management domain (Mdn = 2), Z = -10.45, P < .001, rs = 0.49. The study findings showed the level of RT education did not have a significant effect on the level of adherence to CF clinical guidelines H (2) = 2.7, P= .255. Moreover, the study findings indicated that senior RTs (with > 5 years of experience) demonstrated a higher adherence level to the guidelines than RTs with less than 5 years of experience (Mdn = 8. 7), U = 2056, p < .001, rs =0.314. Additionally, the study revealed no significant difference in adherence of the guidelines between regions of practice in Saudi Arabia, H (4) = 2.5, P= .645.

Conclusions:

The average overall level of adherence to CF clinical guidelines is low among RTs in Saudi Arabia. Education materials need to be implemented to enhance the level of awareness, knowledge, and management of CF.

Disclosures:

None; Sponsored Research-None.