F1000Research (Mar 2022)

Practices, awareness, and perception towards home-based COVID-19 management among the general population in Mangalore city in south India [version 2; peer review: 2 approved]

  • Meera Banihatti Nagaraj,
  • Vishaan Raman,
  • Maranakatte Shridhar Sumukha Manja,
  • Krishna Sai Vemuri,
  • Rahul Vishwanath Shetty,
  • Nitin Joseph,
  • Impana Venkatesha Murthy,
  • Vijay Pratap Singh,
  • Shruthi Shreedhara

Journal volume & issue
Vol. 10

Abstract

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Background: Most patients with COVID-19 experience mild illness, which can be managed in a home environment. This study was done to assess the perception, awareness, and practices regarding home-based management of COVID-19 among the general population in India. Methods: This cross-sectional study was done in May and June 2021. Data were collected using a Google Form. Results: Mean age of the 294 participants was 36.6 ± 12.1 years. Of these participants, 45 (15.3%) were diagnosed with COVID-19 anytime in the past. Among them, 37 (82.2%) underwent home-based management for COVID-19. Monitoring body temperature and oxygen saturation were performed just once a day by 15.2% and 5.9% of COVID-19 patients respectively. Self-medication was practiced by 11 (29.7%) patients. Disposable face masks were worn by 23 (62.2%) patients beyond eight hours of continuous usage. The disposable type of face mask was not discarded despite becoming wet, and cloth masks were worn by eight (21.6%) patients. Disposable gloves were only worn by 14 (37.8%) caregivers of COVID-19 patients. As many as 10 (27%) patients were tested for COVID-19 after completion of home isolation. Awareness of all mild symptoms and signs of the disease was known to only 19 (6.5%) participants. Normal oxygen saturation in the blood was known to 40 (13.6%) participants. Just six (2%) participants were aware of the correct duration of home isolation in a symptomatic patient with COVID-19. The recommended duration of handwashing with soap and water was known to 102 (34.7%) participants. As many as 17.4% and 32.7% of participants were not confident in using thermometer and pulse oximeter respectively. Conclusion: Practices, awareness, and perception regarding certain essential measures in COVID-19 home management were found lacking among several participants. These need to be addressed by suitable training programs among the general population.

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