Awareness and Practices Regarding Stress Peptic Ulcer Prevention Among Hospital Staff and Medical Students

Abstract

Background: Stress ulceration is a significant complication among critically ill patients. Prevention relies not only on clinical guidelines but also on the awareness and practices of healthcare providers.
Objectives: To assess the level of awareness and current practices related to stress ulcer prevention among MBBS students, dental students, and paramedical staff in four tertiary hospitals in India.
Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 250 participants (100 MBBS students, 50 dental students, and 100 paramedical staff including nurses and technicians). A structured questionnaire assessed knowledge of risk factors, prophylactic measures, guideline familiarity, and self-reported preventive practices.
Results: Knowledge scores were highest among MBBS students (mean 78%), followed by paramedical staff (65%) and dental students (54%). Only 43% of participants could correctly identify all major risk factors for stress ulcers. Nurses demonstrated more consistent prophylactic practices (72%) compared to students (MBBS 59%, dental 42%). Significant gaps were observed in guideline awareness and implementation.
Conclusion: Awareness and practices regarding stress ulcer prevention vary significantly among healthcare providers in tertiary care settings. Targeted education and standardized institutional protocols are needed to improve prevention strategies.