D3.489 - Anaphylaxis Diagnosis and Treatment from the Perspective of Primary Care Physicians

Anaphylaxis is a quick and severe systemic hypersensitivity response that may result in death. Medical professionals must be proficient in the diagnostic and treatment procedures for anaphylaxis. Our research sought to assess the experiences of primary-care physicians about anaphylaxis and to evaluate the changes in their attitudes and knowledge levels after training on this topic.

In 2024, Sakarya Education and Research Hospital hosted a presentation on anaphylaxis for primary care physicians in Sakarya province. A survey was scheduled to be administered to volunteer participants before and after the presentation. We made statistical comparisons between the pre-test and post-test outcomes. 

Two hundred and eight individuals finished the pre-test, while 204 completed the post-test. The median age of the participants was 40.5 years [32-51 (25-75 IQR)], and the median duration of service was 15 years [7-25 (25-75 IQR)]. ‘What is the most common cause of anaphylaxis in children and adults?’ In the pre-test, 41.1% and 52.8% of participants answered the questions correctly; however, in the post-test, these rates rose to 88.2% and 87.3%, respectively. The accurate responses to the signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis, diagnostic criteria, and treatment protocols were 89.1%, 85.8%, and 42.7% in the pre-test and 100%, 99%, and 97.5% in the post-test, respectively. In the pre-test, 91% of respondents identified ‘Adrenaline’ as the first medicine in their therapy; however, in the post-test, this ort h rose to 100%. The accurate answer rates ort he adrenaline administration route, location, and dosage choices in the pre-test were 68%, 62.3%, and 54.3%, respectively, whereas in the post-test, these rates increased to 96.6%, 94.1%, and 93.6%. In the pre-test, 72.9% properly answered the question, ‘How long after the initial application may adrenaline be re-administered?’ However, in the post-test, the right response rate increased to 95.1%.

Our research revealed a substantial increase in the knowledge level of primary care physicians after training on anaphylaxis. Providing training to healthcare professionals in demanding working situations will enhance their knowledge, awareness, self-confidence, and the trust within physician-patient relationships.