The knowledge and competencies of healthcare personnel play a crucial role in managing inborn errors of immunity (IEI). This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge and training needs of healthcare personnel regarding IEI and therapeutic patient education (TPE).
A cross-sectional study was conducted among healthcare personnel working in the day hospital unit of the pediatric department at National Center for Bone Marrow Transplantation, Tunisia. Data were collected through structured questionnaires containing 25 questions on the clinical manifestations of IEI, treatment options, and the importance of TPE.
The study included 15 healthcare professionals (4 males and 11 females). The mean professional experience at CNGMO was 7.8 ± 5.3 years (range: 1.5–20 years). The median knowledge score was 12/20 (Q1 = 10, Q3 = 16). A significant correlation was found between a score >10 and more than 2 years of experience (p = 0.044), as well as the pediatric technician grade (p < 0.001). All participants identified recurrent infections as a clinical sign of IEI, and 13/15 recognized growth delay, but only one was aware of the cancer risk associated with IEI. All participants were aware of immunoglobulin therapy; 14/15 knew about antibiotic prophylaxis. Only five understood that bone marrow transplantation is not always indicated.
A significant correlation was found between receiving prior training and a higher knowledge score (p < 0.001), better awareness of the role of TPE in preventing bronchiectasis (p = 0.032) and reducing healthcare costs (p=0.01). Personnel with >2 years of experience demonstrated better knowledge of prenatal diagnosis (p = 0.038), cancer risk (p = 0.040), and the benefits of TPE (p < 0.05).
This study highlights the need for targeted educational programs to improve healthcare personnel’s knowledge of IEI. While experience and training positively influence knowledge levels, gaps remain in disease understanding, treatment options, and the role of TPE. Implementing structured training sessions could enhance patient management and overall healthcare outcomes.
