hand hygiene weapon against COVID-19 health care associated infections

Beenish Abbas; Amjad Akram; Sana Abbas; Ijaz Batool

Abstract:

Objective: To evaluate knowledge of hand cleanliness among medical services providers at the institute. Study Design: KAP Survey. Place and Duration of Study: Tertiary Care Institute, Rawalpindi from Feb 2020 to May 2020. Methodology: Methodology constituted of a web and paper-based questionnaire based on relevant studies and World Health Organization (WHO) Guidelines. A pilot study carried out at 15-20 participants for questionnaire validation and reviewed by independent experts for face validity, a final questionnaire comprised of 10 questions in addition to information on demographic profile and professional overview. Results: Total 780 participants participated in the study and data extracted from their responses. Out of 780, 200 (25.6%) were doctors while 580 (74.4%) were nursing staff, assistants and paramedical staff. 612 (78.5%) participants were aware of the significance of hand hygiene. 192 (24.6%) participants preferred alcohol rub whereas 588 (75.4%) used soap & water. Conclusion: Appropriate hand hygiene knowledge persuaded among healthcare professionals and paramedical staff, ensuring patient safety and prevention of infections. Behavioural modification and constant surveillance are critical to the successful implementation

research from:

• Foundation University College of Dentistry

Year:

2020

Type of Publication:

Article

Journal:

PAFMJ

Volume:

70

Number:

1

Pages:

366-368

Month:

8