HAND HYGIENE TRAINING KNOWLEDGE AND PRACTICES AMONG HEALTHCARE WORKERS IN A HOSPITALS PROVIDING TERTIARY CARE

Abstract

Hand hygiene (HH) is the primary and most crucial method for preventing infections that are acquired within a hospital setting. Our objective was to assess the level of knowledge, training deficiencies, and implementation of hand hygiene practices in a tertiary healthcare facility. These infections result in extended periods of illness, hospitalisation, long-lasting incapacity, unexpectedly large expenses for patients and their families, and a substantial rise in the financial strain on the healthcare system. A cross-sectional study was conducted in a tertiary healthcare facility in Karachi, utilising questionnaires and observations. A total of 137 healthcare workers (HCWs) employed in medical and surgical wards were included in the study. Out of all the participants, only 27% demonstrated a high level of understanding of HH, while 60% had a moderate level of knowledge, and 13% had a low level of knowledge. Regarding the act of practicing, only 31% of the participants reported engaging in regular hand hygiene. The results of this study indicate that there is inadequate understanding, practice, and training in regards to hand hygiene. Enhancing the training and retraining of healthcare personnel, with a specific emphasis on attendants, is of utmost importance. It is also advisable to implement administrative controls and prominently display clear signage in healthcare establishments.