Effective behavior change in hand hygiene practices among boys residing at foster care home in Bengaluru city: An interventional study

Abstract

Objective: Handwashing is the best defense against communicable infections due to lack of good personal hygiene practices. The objective of the study is to evaluate the change in knowledge and practice of hand hygiene among the children living in a foster care home of Bengaluru city. Material and Methods: A pre-tested, closed-ended, and structured questionnaire was administered in local language among 98 children, aged 8–16 years, residing in a foster home for boys in Bengaluru city to assess their knowledge and hand hygiene practices before and after a community-based intervention of handwashing technique which was done. Results: The present study showed a significant improvement in knowledge among majority of the children regarding hand hygiene before and after meals, usage of toilet post-intervention. About 96.9% of the children started practicing handwashing using handwash solution and water. Conclusion: Behavior change through communication campaigns improves safe hand hygiene practices on long term.