Clinician knowledge and self-efficacy in snakebite management: A cross-sectional assessment in Northern Uganda
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Background
Snakebite envenomation (SBE) is a major public health crisis in rural Uganda, yet it remains a neglected tropical disease. Effective management is often compromised by systemic barriers and a lack of clinician training. This study assessed clinician self-efficacy and objective knowledge regarding SBE management in Northern Uganda.
Methods
A descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted between February and July 2025 among 379 healthcare workers in Gulu, Omoro, and Pader districts. A validated questionnaire was used to collect data on socio-demographics, self-reported efficacy (scale 1–10), and objective knowledge. Knowledge scores ≥70% were categorized as adequate. Multivariable logistic regression identified independent predictors of adequate knowledge, and Spearman’s correlation (ρ) assessed the relationship between knowledge and self-efficacy.
Results
The participants had a mean age of 35.6 years (SD ±7.3), were predominantly female (56.5%, 214/379), and most (83.6%, 317/379) practiced at Health Centre III level facilities. While 53.8% (204/379) reported prior training, 48.3% (183/379) of these had not received an update in over 10 years. Adequate knowledge was demonstrated by 51.5% (195/379) of participants. In the multivariable analysis, practicing in Omoro (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 0.3, 95% CI: 0.1–0.6, p < 0.001) or Pader (aOR: 0.2, 95% CI: 0.1–0.4, p < 0.001) was associated with lower odds of adequate knowledge compared to Gulu district. Prior training significantly increased the odds of adequate knowledge (aOR: 2.3, 95% CI: 1.3–4.2, p = 0.006). A moderate positive correlation was observed between self-efficacy and objective knowledge (Spearman’s ρ = 0.33, p < 0.0001).
Conclusion
Approximately half of the frontline healthcare workers in Northern Uganda lack adequate knowledge on SBE management, with significant geographic differences and outdated training. The gap between clinician self-efficacy and objective knowledge poses a risk to patient safety. Regular, mandatory refresher training and targeted educational outreach to remote districts are required to reduce SBE-related morbidity and mortality.
