Survey of knowledge and attitude of students of Abadan University of Medical Sciences to "COVID - 19"

Introduction: “COVID-19” is a dangerous viral disease that has recently become a pandemic. In the meantime, the knowledge and attitude of medical students in caring for patients are very important. Therefore, this study was conducted to investigate the knowledge and attitudes of Abadan medical students about the “ COVID-19 “ disease. 

Methods: This cross-sectional study was performed on medical students (n = 255) in 2020-2021 using the convenience sampling method. Data was collected using a personal information questionnaire and a researcher-made questionnaire of knowledge and attitude related to the disease. The total score of students ‘knowledge about “ COVID-19” disease was between 0 and 33, where 0 means minimum knowledge and 33 means between 16 and 80. After confirming the validity and reliability of the questionnaire, the online questionnaire was completed by individuals. 

Results: The results showed that the mean and standard deviation of knowledge scores and students’ attitudes toward “COVID-19” disease were 13.42 ±2.69 and 22.27 ±3.9, respectively. The results showed that there was no significant relationship between attitude and demographic characteristics. There was a significant relationship between students ‘knowledge score and field of study (P= 0.001) but there was no significant relationship between students’ knowledge score and gender and marital status. 

Conclusion: Medical students have an acceptable knowledge and attitude toward “COVID-19”. On the other hand, our information about “COVID-19” disease is increasing every day. Therefore, the educational authorities of medical universities should design and implement programs to increase the awareness and attitude of students toward “COVID-19”.