Knowledge and attitude of physical therapists regarding their role in disaster management

Abstract

Background: A disaster is an unexpected, catastrophic event that interferes with a community and society and causes harm to it. When disaster occurs, there is an immediate, catastrophic loss of life and disabilities. In order to improve outcomes, physical therapy is crucial for the rehabilitation process and for properly integrating people with disabilities into society.

Objective: To assess the knowledge and attitude of physiotherapist regarding their role in disaster management.

Methods: A Cross-sectional survey was conducted on physiotherapists from different hospitals, clinics and institutes of Hyderabad in May 2022 to December 2022. The questionnaire, comprises of 26 close ended questions, filled by physiotherapist after the approval (IU/IIRS/SIAR/2022/074) granted by Isra Institute of Rehabilitation Sciences, Isra University, Hyderabad Ethical Committee. Study included both male and female physical therapists who gave written consent and currently engaged in their work field. Physiotherapists not currently practicing, had less than one year of experience and held a diploma degree were excluded from the study. The data was analyzed by using the SPSS version 22.

Results: A total of 169 physical therapists participated and returned completely filled questionnaire. The mean age of participants was 29.00 ± 2.89 years. The study comprised 80 male physiotherapists (47.3%) and 89 female physiotherapists (52.7%). Average knowledge related to disaster management was found among physical therapist with percentage of 55.0% and 97.5% of participants displayed positive attitude related to management of disastrous events.

Conclusion: This study concluded that the physical therapists have average knowledge score and positive attitude regarding disaster management.