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.