Effect of Interactive Web-based Educational Intervention on Preventive Practices of Covid-19 among Internship Students

Background: Medical interns need to focus on training and service delivery because they are in the early stages of their careers. Ensuring that training is managed effectively, and interns are educated on COVID-19 is crucial. This study sought to determine the effect of an interactive web-based educational intervention on preventive practices of COVID-19 among internship students. Materials and Methods: This study employed a quasi-experimental (one group pre/post-test) research design. The study included all Applied Medical Sciences internship students at AL-Baha University. An intern's hand and respiratory hygiene compliance throughout the COVID-19 pandemic was assessed using a self-administrated online Google form. A post-test was conducted after implementing a web-based interactive COVID-19 preventive education intervention. The SPSS was used for analysis. Results: The interactive web-based educational intervention had a significant impact on the preventive practices of COVID-19 among internship students. After the intervention, there was a notable increase in the average hand hygiene score to 62.06 ± 5.69 (z= 3.661*, p < 0.001*). Similarly, the average respiratory etiquette score also significantly improved, to 94.34 ± 10.93 (z= 3.521*, p < 0.001*). Additionally, students residing in rural areas demonstrated a noteworthy association (t= 3.063, P= 0.002), and those aged above 22 also showed a significant correlation (t= 2.808, P= 0.005). Furthermore, previous training in hand hygiene (t= 1.278, P= 0.003) and respiratory etiquettes (t= 1.871, P= 0.005) were identified as significant determinants. Conclusion: The interactive web-based educational intervention had a significant positive impact on COVID-19 preventive practices among internship students. The hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette scores significantly improved, highlighting its effectiveness in promoting better hygiene practices. Moreover, certain student factors, such as residing in rural areas and being above 22 years old, were found to be significantly associated with preventive practices. This intervention improved internship students' COVID-19 preventive practices.