Awareness of Basic Knowledge of Hand Hygiene in Chinese Medical Facilities: A Questionnaire-Based Survey

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate the level of awareness of the basic concepts of hand hygiene among healthcare staff in China. An online questionnaire survey was used to obtain data from 30 provinces and municipalities in three regions of China. A total of 45,455 valid questionnaires were received. The overall correct response rate was 26.53%. The highest correct response rates concerned the relationship between hand hygiene and healthcare-associated infection (97.71%) and the characteristics of microbiota and resident flora on hands (96.35%), followed by awareness of the World Health Organization’s “My 5 moments for hand hygiene” concept (91.61%), knowledge of glove use (90.53%), hand hygiene materials (89.28%), and characteristics of microbiota and transient flora on hands (84.60%). Other indications for hand hygiene, including the basic concept of hand hygiene, and the effectiveness of alcohol-based handrub on the hand microbiome had lower rates. Eastern China demonstrated a better knowledge than other regions (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 4.08; 95% CI:3.84-4.32). Respondents in primary care facilities had a higher correct response rate than other types of hospitals (aOR:2.33; 95% CI: 2.05-2.66); logistics staff had the highest correct response rate compared to other professional groups (aOR: 1.84; 95% CI: 1.53-2.29). Among clinical departments, outpatient/emergency room staff had the highest rate of correct responses (aOR: 1.51; 95% CI: 1.34-1.71). The authors observed large differences in the basic knowledge of hand hygiene across different regions in China. Notably, knowledge levels need to be strengthened among secondary care facilities, nursing staff, and infection prevention and control units.