Publication:

Knowledge and practice of rabies post-exposure prophylaxis and animal-bite management among postgraduate trainees and faculty at a tertiary hospital in Goa: a cross-sectional study

Background Rabies is almost uniformly fatal after symptom onset but preventable with timely wound care and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP). Physicians across specialties must apply current guidance to avoid preventable deaths. This study was done to assess knowledge and self-reported practices regarding rabies prophylaxis and animal-bite management among postgraduate trainees (PGT) and faculty at a tertiary care teaching hospital in Goa.

Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted during September 2024 to October 2024 among PGT and faculty (excluding Community Medicine due to prior structured training in anti-rabies clinic protocols). A sample size of 220 was estimated using a single-proportion formula (p=0.833, d=0.05, 95% confidence) and selected by simple random sampling from an eligible roster (n=350). Participants received a self-administered online questionnaire after electronic consent. Responses were scored as correct/incorrect against the National Guidelines for Rabies Prophylaxis (2019). Descriptive statistics were reported as frequencies and percentages.

Results Of 220 invited doctors, 146 responded (response rate 66%); 96 (65.8%) were PGT and 100 (68%) belonged to clinical departments. Correct responses were generally higher for rabies epidemiology than for clinical management domains, particularly wound management, RIG indications/dosing, pre-exposure prophylaxis, and management of re-exposure in previously vaccinated individuals (only 36/146, 25%, correct).

Conclusions Substantial gaps were observed in practical rabies PEP decision-making and wound management despite relatively adequate epidemiologic knowledge. Regular, competency-based refreshers and protocol reinforcement across departments are warranted to support rabies elimination goals.