Title: Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Medical Laboratory Professionals Regarding the Interpretation of Complete Blood Count Findings Associated with Non-Hematological Conditions in Gezira State, Sudan (2026)
Authors: Abeer Mohammed Fadlalla Hag Altaib
Mustafa Ibrahim Abbas
Selma Omer Mohammed
Khalid Abdelsamea Mohamedahmed
Volume: 10
Issue: 8
Pages: 1-14
Publication Date: 2026/08/28
Abstract:
Introduction: Accurate interpretation of complete blood count (CBC) findings in non-hematological conditions is a critical competency for medical laboratory professionals, particularly in resource-limited settings where laboratory results heavily influence clinical decisions. Aim: This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of medical laboratory professionals regarding the interpretation of CBC findings associated with non-hematological clinical conditions in Gezira State, Sudan. Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 110 medical laboratory professionals using a structured, self-administered questionnaire covering knowledge (15 items), attitude (10 Likert items), practice (10 Likert items), and perceived barriers. Data were analyzed in SPSS version 24 using descriptive statistics, independent-samples t-test, one-way ANOVA, Chi-square tests, and Spearman correlation, with significance set at p < 0.05. Results: Knowledge was suboptimal, with 34.5% of participants classified as good, 29.1% as moderate, and 36.4% as poor; the highest-scoring item concerned the value of peripheral blood smear examination in unexplained cytopenia (88.2% correct), while the lowest concerned recognizing situations in which the reticulocyte production index is unreliable (25.5% correct). Attitudes were predominantly positive (70.0%; mean 84.1%), and practice was relatively favorable (61.8% good; mean 80.6%). Male participants scored significantly higher than females on knowledge (10.88 ± 3.31 vs. 8.91 ± 3.32; t = 3.005, p = 0.003), and knowledge level was significantly associated with gender (?² = 9.109, p = 0.011) and years of experience (F = 3.576, p = 0.016). Practice level was significantly associated with frequency of continuing professional development (CPD) participation, rising from 42.9% good practice among non-participants to 86.7% among those who participated regularly (?² = 16.209, p = 0.013). Knowledge, attitude, and practice scores were all significantly and positively correlated (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Although attitudes and practices were generally satisfactory, important knowledge gaps remain in the interpretation of CBC findings linked to non-hematological conditions. Regular CPD, targeted training on advanced interpretive skills, and standardized interpretation guidelines are recommended to strengthen diagnostic competency among medical laboratory professionals in Sudan.