Knowledge, Perception and Attitude of Pharmacists, Nurses and Doctors about Home-Care Medical Devices in Sharjah and Ajman, UAE

Abstract

Background: Medical Equipments are designed to aid in the diagnosis; monitoring or treatment of medical conditions. Upgrades in technology also help continuously educate healthcare professionals. Where previously the use of devices like “mercury sphygmomanometers” is common place, they are now being replaced by either aneroid or “mercury-free” devices. It indicates the development of technology in this area. However, trends show that healthcare professionals still seem to trust “old school” equipment a lot more. Thus, it would be motivating to see why healthcare professionals have such engraved perceptions regarding medical equipment and to be able to investigate their knowledge about current medical devices and what their thoughts are on new technology available in this area. Objectives: This research is designed with an aim to gauge perception and knowledge of targeted HCPs on the risks, benefits, issues, usage and perception on the difference between older medical equipment and the newer ones with state of the art technology available in the market. Methods: A cross-sectional study using a 34 item questionnaire was used to survey a convenient sample of nurses, pharmacists and doctors across community practices in Ajman and Sharjah, UAE. Conclusion: Discouraging HCP’s from a long standing bias towards certain brands may lead towards better therapeutic outcomes for patients. Also, comments from HCP’s prove that HCP’s in these Emirates really do care for their patients and overall improvement of the health care industry.