KNOWLEDGE ON DIRECTLY OBSERVED TREATMENT SHORT COURSE (DOTS) AMONG TUBERCULOSIS PATIENTS OF SELECTED DOTS CENTRES OF LUDHIANA, PUNJAB.

WHO recommended framework for effective tuberculosis control strategy known by the brand name DOTS. The present study aimed to assess the knowledge about Tuberculosis and DOTS among tuberculosis patients. The Quantitative research approach and non-experimental exploratory research design was used and study carried out in selected DOTS centers. Total 110 tuberculosis patients taking DOTS were chosen by Purposive sampling technique. Self structured Interview schedule questionnaire used to evaluate knowledge on DOTS. Conclusion drawn were based on findings that majority 66% subjects having average knowledge, 7% having good & 26% having below average knowledge, On the other hand with context to relationship of knowledge with selected variables, Qualification depict that calculated value was 3.37 which is more than tabled value 2.68, Also family income depicts that calculated value was 4.53 which is more than tabled value 3.37. This difference was found to have statistically significant at p<0.05 and p<0.001 respectively. Conclusion drawn were based on findings of the study that majority of patients having average knowledge, in context to relationship of knowledge with selected variables, qualification/education and family income had significant impact on knowledge among TB patients. Pamphlet was prepared regarding knowledge on TB and DOTS to increase the level of knowledge.