Journal of Advanced Practices in Nursing

A Cross-Sectional Study of Compliance of Preventive Measures Adopted by Medical Students of a Rural Medical College Against Covid-19

Abstract

Chinmay Kher* and Swarupa Chakole

Introduction: The entire world is under the threat of Coronavirus disease (Covid-19 Pandemic) which is still causing many morbidities and mortalities. India is amongst the world- leaders in number of Covid19 cases. The world is looking towards Indian strategies to contain the outbreak of this infection. India has been successful to a great extent in giving a tough fight to this pandemic by using the WHO recommendations of Face mask, Hand Hygiene and Social distancing. Objective: The aim of this study is to assess whether the guidelines and the knowledge which is repeatedly disseminated by the various authorities, has been understood and is being seriously practiced by the group of medical students studying in their Final year MBBS at a prestigious Deemed University Medical College in Maharashtra, India. Material and Methods: A total of 78 respondents from medical students of 2018 batch studying in 3rd year of MBBS at JNMC, DIIMS, Sawangi-Meghe, Wardha, Maharashtra, India; completed a questionnaire based survey on knowledge and infection-control practices related to Covid-19 infection. The questionnaire was presented as a Google Form. The questionnaire was based on the current interim guidelines and information made available by various health authorities from the Government of India. The collected data and distribution of responses was presented as frequencies and percentages. Results: A large percentage (71.8%) of the medical students are concerned and cautious about Covid19.A high percentage (exceeding 90%) are having correct knowledge about the disease and correct practices to prevent the spread. More than 97% felt that it is their social responsibility to take safety measures in controlling the spread of Covid19. Most of the students (98.7%) have taken both doses of the vaccine. Conclusion: From this study we can conclude that the medical students at JNMC, DMIMS have the correct knowledge about covid19 infection and are seriously following the correct preventive measures and are aware of their social responsibility. It also indirectly reflects on the effectiveness of awareness and guidelines issued by authorities from the Government as well as by the University.