Table 1.
Training, supervision and technical capacity of EPI personnel in vaccine and cold chain management (N = 50).
| Variables | Yes, n (%) | |
|---|---|---|
| Training and supervision by regulatory body | ||
| Trained on EPI service | 44 (88) | |
| Trained on IPLS training | 33 (66) | |
| Trained on vaccine related inventory management | 24 (48) | |
| Supervised by regulatory authorities within the last six months | 45 (90) | |
| Knowledge and technical capacity | ||
| Knew the recommended temperature ranges for vaccine storage (+2°C and + 8°C). | 47 (94) | |
| Knew the recommended temperature ranges for diluents (cooled to 2–8°C). | 41 (82) | |
| Knew how to pack ice pack in vaccine carrier | 34 (68) | |
| Knew how to prevent vaccine freezing during transport | 40 (80) | |
| Knew most heat sensitive vaccines (OPV, Measles and BCG) | 46 (92) | |
| Named most cold sensitive vaccines (DPT-HepB-Hib, PCV, TT, IPV, and Rota) | 41 (82) | |
| Knew most light sensitive vaccines (BCG and measles) | 23 (46) | |
| Knew how to correctly conduct shake test | 31 (62) | |
| Knew vaccine vail monitor (VVM) stages | 46 (92) | |
| Knew vaccines eligible for four weeks open vial policy (TT, IPV and OPV) | 39 (78) | |
| Knew Early Expiry First Out (EEFO) principle based on VVM status | 39 (78) | |
| Knew Early Expiry First Out (EEFO) principle based on expiry date | 48 (96) | |
| Knew how to organize old and new vaccines to facilitate use of older vaccines first | 40 (80) | |
| Knew vaccines should be stored only for a maximum of 1 month in PHCF | 45 (45) | |
| Knew diluents and vaccine should be from same manufacturer | 40 (80) | |
| Knew how to calculate vaccines wastage rate | 38 (76) | |
| Overall mean score of knowledge | 12.8(±3.3) | |
| Level of knowledge of vaccine cold chain management | Poor | 20 (40) |
| Good | 30 (60) | |