Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices of Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS) Protocol in 4 Selected Hospitals in Cameroon: A Cross-Sectional Study Design

Background of the Study: Trauma has long been a major public health problem worldwide, particularly affecting developing countries. It is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality and accounts for about 10% of the global burden of disease and over five million deaths, as well as 52 million disability-adjusted life years annually. Despite the impact of the ATLS protocol on injury management, its awareness and use remain questionable. Thus, this study aimed to assess the ATLS knowledge, attitude, and practices of health personnel involved in the management of injuries in 4 hospitals in Cameroon. Methodology: This was a cross-sectional, hospital-based study. A questionnaire was used to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of healthcare providers on the ATLS protocol in four hospitals (Regional Hospital Limbe (RHL), Regional Hospital Bafoussam (RHB), Laquintinie Hospital Douala (HLD), and the Edea Regional Hospital (HRAE)). Results: Out of the 225 personnel enrolled in the study, 155 (71.4%) were females, 65 (29.1%) were state-registered nurses, and 40 (17.9%) were general practitioners. The overall knowledge was poor (71%), while 29% had good knowledge. There was a significant association between health facility personnel and knowledge (γ2 = 20.26, p γ2 = 13.14, p = 0.009). Specialist doctors demonstrated significantly higher knowledge than the other cadres involved in the study. The majority of participants (191; 85%) had a good attitude towards ATLS. The association between the health facility and attitude towards ATLS was statistically significant (γ2 = 9.963, P = 0.029). A total of 147 (65%) participants demonstrated good practice of the ATLS protocol. Specialist doctors were four times more likely to have good knowledge compared to other health professionals, AOR 4.737 (95% CI: 1.272 - 17.636, p = 0.02). Conclusion: Knowledge of the ATLS protocol was poor among study participants. However, attitudes and practices towards ATLS were good. Knowledge, attitudes, and practices of the ATLS were significantly influenced by the level of education and the location of the participants. Training on ATLS is recommended for healthcare personnel to improve care for injured patients.