OBJECTIVES

To investigate the knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) regarding deep vein thrombosis (DVT) among patients presenting with lower limb swelling and pain and their accompanying family members. A secondary objective was to compare KAP levels between these two groups and identify predictors of higher KAP.

DESIGN

A cross-sectional survey study.

SETTING

The study was conducted in various hospital wards and outpatient clinics at a single tertiary academic hospital (Zhongshan Hospital, Xiamen University) in Xiamen, China, from October 2023 to May 2024.

PARTICIPANTS

A total of 725 participants were recruited using convenience sampling, comprising 358 patients presenting with lower limb swelling and pain and 367 accompanying family members. Key inclusion criteria were age of ≥18 years and the ability to provide informed consent.

PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES

Primary outcomes were KAP scores measured by a validated, self-designed questionnaire. Scores ≥70% of the maximum possible score for each domain were defined as adequate knowledge (≥16.8/24), a positive attitude (≥19) and proactive practice (≥30.4). Secondary outcomes included the comparison of KAP scores between patients and family members and the identification of factors associated with higher overall KAP levels using multivariate logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

Of 725 participants, both patients and family members demonstrated inadequate mean knowledge scores (10.62±4.71 and 11.88±4.95, respectively, below the adequacy threshold of 16.8), though mean attitude and practice scores were above the positive/proactive thresholds. Family members had significantly higher scores than patients across all domains: knowledge (mean difference: 1.26, p<0.001), attitude (mean difference: 0.55, p=0.031) and practice (mean difference: 1.45, p<0.001). KAP were all positively correlated (all p<0.001). In multivariate analysis of the family member group, a higher education level (OR=3.06, 95% CI: 1.70 to 5.49) and being medical personnel (OR=5.21, 95% CI: 2.36 to 11.48) were significant predictors of higher overall KAP scores.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients presenting with lower limb symptoms and their families possess inadequate knowledge about DVT, despite generally positive attitudes and proactive practices. Family members represent a key resource with significantly better KAP than patients. Targeted educational interventions, focusing on individuals with lower educational levels and non-medical backgrounds, are crucial to improve DVT awareness and facilitate timely medical consultation.