Notifiable infectious disease reporting awareness among physicians and registered nurses in primary care and emergency department settings

Abstract

This study examined knowledge about notifiable infectious disease reporting among physicians and registered nurses (RNs) in primary care and emergency department settings in King County, Washington. In 2005, a total of 165 physicians and 170 RNs completed a questionnaire to assess knowledge, training and feedback regarding notifiable infectious disease reporting. Only 55% of the physicians and 63% of the RNs were aware of reporting procedures within their institution. Awareness was higher when employer-provided training had been provided. Our findings indicate that employer training can improve reporting knowledge.