Abstract:
Background: Hand hygiene significantly reduces the number of disease
contamination and can minimize cross- contamination. But in daily practice
compliance to hand hygiene is low and reasons for low compliance, factors associated
had not been well defined in Ethiopia, probably due to limitation of studies.
Objectives: The Main objective of the study was to assess the infection prevention
and control activities of healthcare workers focusing on hand hygiene.
Methods: Cross-sectional quantitative study design and qualitative individual indepth
interview were conducted. Semi-structured open-ended questions were
employed. 628 participants completed a self administered questionnaire. 17 key
hospital informants selected purposively and interviewed.
Results: Level of health institution, gender profession and program management
efforts of infection prevention & control were found to be independent predictor of
hand hygiene practice. The mean knowledge score of health care workers was 4.94
(1.381). 56.5% (355) of the respondents suggested that the infection prevention and
control program management effort of the health facilities was unsatisfactory. It was
statistically significant (OR = 0.89, 95% CI = (0.92-0.83), (Adjusted OR = 1.63, 95%
CI = 1.15-2.31), P = 0.05 and associated with hand hygiene practice. In addition, lack
of budget, commitment, training opportunities, knowledge, supplies and hand
washing facilities were reported as the main reasons for poor hand hygiene
performance.
Conclusion: The finding they a substantial proportion of the facilities surveyed lack
proper infection prevention hand hygiene practice. Facilities have made some efforts,
but much more needs to be done to respond successfully to a serious communicable
disease with serious consequences. An effective infection prevention program
management will help in the retention of knowledge, attitudes and practices among
the various categories of healthcare workers. Staff training, adoption of an alcohol
based hand-rub, hand washing facilities with a regular system of monitoring in place
and take action to assist employers & workers in the health system are recommended.
Key words: Hand hygiene practice, IP Program management and, Knowledge.
