Nurses' knowledge and adherence perception to standard infection control practices; Single Centre Experience

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Epidemiology & Biostatistics Department, National Cancer Institute, Cairo University

2 Clinical pathology, National Cancer Institute, Cairo University

Abstract

Background: The knowledge and implementation of infection prevention and control (IPC) protocols among nurses play a vital role in ensuring the efficacy of IPC measures. Adherence to IPC procedures has significant ramifications for the safety of healthcare workers (HCWs) and the protection of patients.

Objective: was to test nurses' knowledge about standard precautions and their adherence perception to infection control practices.

Methodology: Cross-sectional research was done at the National Cancer Institute (NCI), Cairo University (CU). The study included 213 nurses. The nurses completed a self-administered questionnaire as part of the study.

Results:

Participant’s age, professional title, years of experience, and the receiving of hepatitis B virus vaccine were statistically significant when associated with adherence perception regarding standard precautions. The level of knowledge wasn't associated with any of these factors except for the department where these nurses work. A multivariate analysis regarding knowledge score, was done & revealed that nurses working at outpatient clinics had better knowledge than those working in Medical Oncology, Surgical Oncology, and Pediatric Oncology Wards; in addition to those working in the operating room, intensive care units, and endoscopy unit. Regarding adherence perception score, we found that having fewer years of experience and being vaccinated against Hepatitis B were associated with more adherence perception.

Conclusion & Recommendations: Most nurses needed more knowledge, and almost half of them had no adequate level of adherence perception regarding standard precaution practices. Having written policies and communicating them to all nurses, intensified training, and regular supervision is recommended

Keywords

The Egyptian Family Medicine Journal

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 19 April 2024

Files

Share

How to cite

Statistics