Assessment of Knowledge and Factors Affecting Preventive Practices Against Nosocomial Infections Among Healthcare Professionals in a Teaching Hospital in Ondo State, Nigeria

Abstract

Nosocomial infections constitute major public health problem globally and are on the increase despite efforts in ensuring hospital infection control, contributing significantly to morbidity and mortality. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the factors influencing the preventive practices against nosocomial infection in a teaching hospital setting in Nigeria. A cross-sectional descriptive survey using quantitative method was adopted among 172 health care professionals. Researcher developed questionnaire was used to collect data. Data was analysed using descriptive statistics while hypotheses were tested using multinomial logistic regression and 5% level of significance. Findings showed that the Mean age of the respondents (36.63±4.78) were with a modal age of 18-30years (55.8%). Majority of the respondents 149(86.6%) has good knowledge of nosocomial infection. Respondents practiced separation of patients with communicable diseases, proper use of PPE, proper hand hygiene, proper handling of contaminated materials, proper disposal of contaminated materials, regular use of gloves, adequate bed spacing, and hand washing before and after procedure. Unfavourable work environment 166 (96.5), short staffing; 152 (88.4%), excessive workload, 150 (87.2%) and lack of Knowledge of nosocomial infection 142 (82.6%) were factor affecting preventive practice against NI, with unfavorable work environment (OR: 0.007, Cl: 15.479-24842.6 p 0.001) most likely to affect respondent's overall level of preventive practices. In conclusion the study highlights the critical factors influencing healthcare workers' preventive practices against nosocomial infections (NIs) in a healthcare setting, addressing these barriers requires targeted interventions, such as enhancing supervision, ensuring adequate staffing, providing necessary equipment, and fostering a supportive work environment