Enhancing Rabies Training Program: Evidence from Nurses’ Knowledge, Attitudes, And Practices

Abstract

This study determined the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of nurses regarding rabies management and prevention and examined their association with selected profile variables and rabies management performance. A quantitative descriptive–correlational research design was employed among 201 staff nurses selected through total enumeration. Data were collected using a researcher-developed questionnaire and analyzed using frequency and percentage distribution, weighted mean, Mann–Whitney U test, Kruskal–Wallis H test, and correlation analysis at a 0.05 level of significance. Results revealed that most respondents were aged 20–30 years, female, had 1–5 years of work experience, and had not received formal rabies-specific training. Despite the low rate of training exposure, nurses demonstrated a high level of knowledge, positive attitudes, and well-established practices related to rabies management and prevention. Significant differences in knowledge, attitudes, and practices were observed across selected profile variables. Moreover, knowledge, attitudes, and practices showed significant positive relationships with rabies management and prevention. These findings underscore the importance of institutionalizing regular, standardized, and competency-based rabies training programs anchored on the DOH Rabies Manual to ensure uniform implementation of evidence-based practices. The study concludes that while nurses generally exhibit adequate competencies in rabies management, strengthening compliance with DOH-mandated training and orientation programs is essential to sustain quality nursing care, enhance patient safety, and support national rabies elimination goals.