Exploring the Pharmacists' Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice During COVID-19: A KAP Model Approach

Background: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic had a major effect on economics, cultures, and world health. Effective prevention, management, and control of the virus depend on an understanding of its origins and early conditions. This study examines pharmacists' knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAPs) on COVID-19 prevention and control in Kuwait using the KAPs approach.Methods: From August 15 to August 30, 2022, a cross-sectional survey design was used in the study. A convenience sample of 400 participants was obtained. Data were collected via an online survey that consisted of demographic questions and a KAPs survey about COVID-19. The survey had been piloted before and was deemed to have a respectable level of dependability. Based on predetermined scoring levels, participants' anonymous replies were divided into categories such as adequate/inadequate knowledge, positive/negative attitudes, and appropriate/inappropriate practices.Results: Half of the participants were married, and most of the participants were female. They were mostly in the age range of 31-40 years. The most common highest level of education attained was a master's degree. There were noticeable differences in the demographics. Overall, 83.5% of participants showed adequate knowledge, 94% had a good attitude, and 52.5% had appropriate practice. Males had a greater understanding of transmission but lesser knowledge of clinical presentation. The group with the highest rates of proper behavior and adequate Knowledge was those aged 31-40 years. Being married was associated with higher knowledge. The educational level had a substantial impact on results, with master's degree holders having greater rates of adequate knowledge. Although knowledge and attitude ratings showed a good correlation, attitude by itself could not significantly predict actual preventative measures, highlighting the necessity for behavior-change-focused treatments.Conclusion: This study highlights the significance of educating pharmacists about evidence-based practices to improve their involvement in COVID-19 prevention and control. The importance of disseminating clear information via a variety of communication methods is underscored by the positive association found between knowledge and practice. The study focuses on pharmacists in Kuwait in particular since it acknowledges the need to bolster their optimistic outlooks and aggressive involvement in tackling health issues. In conclusion, these results highlight how important focused interventions and education are to successful pandemic management.