International Journal of Collaborative Research on Internal Medicine & Public Health

Optimal Temperature of Cold Chain and its Associated Factors among General Practitioners in Kelantan, Malaysia

Objectives: To determine the prevalence of optimal temperature of cold chain and its associated factors among general practitioners.

Method: Cross sectional study was conducted between April and November 2010 among general practitioners in Kelantan. Refrigerator inspection and recording of temperature after 24- hours using minimax thermometer were done. Sample size calculated using single proportion formula was 115. Data was analyzed by Simple and Multiple Logistic Regression using SPSS 12.0.

Results: There were 89 general practitioners involved with response rate of 80.9%. A total of 14 (15.7%) refrigerators were within optimal temperature. Total working experience and duration of working as general practitioners were significant associated factors for acquiring optimal. For every 1 year increase in total working experience, there will be 0.78 times at odds of optimal temperature and for every 1 year increase in the duration working as general practitioners there will be 1.22 times at odds of optimal temperature.

Conclusion: The difference in working experience does not contribute to optimal temperature as cold chain management in health clinics was performed by paramedics such as staff nurses. Quality improvement activities such as educational material, having dedicated person in charge of vaccine and distribution of thermometer may improve cold chain management.

Author(s): Azira B, Norhayati M N , Norwati D

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