Influenza immunization of medical residents: knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors.
BACKGROUND
There have been few studies of barriers to acceptance of influenza immunization among medical residents.


METHODS
We conducted a cross-sectional survey of residents at the Western Pennsylvania Hospital during the 2003-2004 influenza season. An anonymous questionnaire designed specifically for this study was used to collect demographic, health beliefs and attitudes, and medical knowledge data related to the influenza vaccine.


RESULTS
43 residents were surveyed from January to February 2004. 58% of the respondents reported receiving the vaccine. Immunization rates were significantly associated with postgraduate level, prior vaccination, media influence, whether they knew co-residents who were vaccinated, medical knowledge scores, and plan to be vaccinated next year. Immunization rates by age, sex, type of medical school, department, whether they had children younger than 16, whether they would recommend the vaccine to patients, and the respondents' health status did not differ significantly. Residents who had higher medical knowledge scores were significantly more likely to be immunized and recommend the vaccine to patients.


CONCLUSIONS
Resident influenza immunization rate in this sample was higher than the national average for healthcare workers. The rate of immunization was associated with demographic, knowledge, and behavioral factors.
Toy
Walton C
WC
Department of Internal Medicine, Western Pennsylvania Hospital, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, USA. wactmd@yahoo.com
Janosky
Janine E
JE
Laird
Susan B
SB
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D005260:Female; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006761:Hospitals; D006801:Humans; D007252:Influenza Vaccines / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D007251:Influenza, Human / Q000517:prevention & control*; D007396:Internship and Residency; D008297:Male; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires
D007252:Influenza Vaccines