Survey development
The gynecologist’s questionnaire (Appendix 1) was designed critically and concisely based on literature surveys of similar studies and the general principles of good survey design 8-11. The survey contained close-ended and open-ended questions that can be completed within an average of 15 minutes. To ensure comprehension, clarity, readability and acceptability, the survey was piloted by a group of volunteer gynecologists (n=10) during a pilot study that was conducted over a month period. Refinements were made as needed before the last version of the survey was finalized.
The survey consisted of four main parts; the first part was designed to collect data on the gynecologists’ demographic characteristics including age, gender, years in practice, and level of specialty. The second part was designed to assess gynecologists’ knowledge regarding HBV in pregnancy. The third part was designed to evaluate gynecologists’ attitude regarding HBV testing including their attitude regarding the importance of screening pregnant females on HBV and counseling them about it. The last part was designed to assess gynecologists’ practice regarding HBV testing during female pregnancy. The questionnaire included Likert scale questions that measured their basic knowledge and daily practice regarding Hepatitis B.