INFECTION CONTROL FOR TERTIARY CARE, PAKISTAN: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY OF STAFF ATTITUDES AND PRACTICES

Abstract

Healthcare-associated infections pose a significant threat to patient safety and are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality. Nurses, in particular, are constantly exposed to microorganisms during their nursing activities; making infection control practices a crucial aspect of their work. This cross-sectional study aimed to evaluate the knowledge, skills, and judgment of nursing staff in two tertiary care hospitals in relation to infection control measures. Out of 158 participants, 156 were included in the study, and the data were analyzed using SPSS software. The results showed that 82% of nurses at HMC had good knowledge, while only 42% of nurses at KTH had fair knowledge regarding infection control. The study identified gaps in specific aspects of knowledge and practice, particularly regarding the proper use of personal protective equipment. The study recommends that health ministries provide comprehensive training programs and that healthcare workers be directed to use authentic sources of information to improve their knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding infection control.