Abstract
BackgroundEvidence exists regarding the full prevention of HCV transmission to hemodialysis patients by implementing universal precaution. However, little information is available regarding the frequency with which hospitals have adopted evidence-based practices for preventing HCV infection among hemodialysis patients. A cross-sectional survey has been conducted among nurses in Calabria region (Italy) in order to acquire information about the level of knowledge, the attitudes and the frequencies of evidence-based practices that prevent hospital transmission of HCV.MethodsAll 37 hemodialysis units (HDU) of Calabria were included in the study and all nurses were invited to participate in the study and to fill in a self-administered questionnaire.Results90% of the nurses working in HDU participated in the study. Correct answers about HCV pattern of transmission ranged from 73.7% to 99.3% and were significantly higher in respondents who knew that isolation of HCV-infected patients is not recommended and among those who knew that previous bloodstream infections should be included in medical record and among nurses with fewer years of practice. Most correctly thought that evidence-based infection control measures provide adequate protection against transmission of bloodborne pathogens among healthcare workers. Positive attitude was significantly higher among more knowledgeable nurses. Self-reporting of appropriate handwashing procedures were significantly more likely in nurses who were aware that transmission of bloodborne pathogens among healthcare workers may be prevented through adoption of evidence-based practices and with a correct knowledge about HCV transmission patterns.ConclusionsBehavior changes should be aimed at abandoning outdated practices and adopting and maintaining evidence-based practices. Initiatives focused at enabling and reinforcing adherence to effective prevention practices among nurses in HDU are strongly needed.
Highlights
Evidence exists regarding the full prevention of hepatitis C virus (HCV) transmission to hemodialysis patients by implementing universal precaution
Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a major cause of liver disease and hepatocellular carcinoma all over the world, it accounts for more than 350 000 deaths each year, and it is estimated that 130–170 million people are chronically infected with HCV [1]
Previous studies demonstrated that healthcare workers (HCW) inconsistencies in attitudes and practices about bloodborne viruses exist [6,7,8], and a recent study conducted in chronic hemodialysis units (HDU) in the United States has provided epidemiologic evidence of associations between specific patient-care practices and higher HCV infection prevalence among HD patients [9]
Summary
Evidence exists regarding the full prevention of HCV transmission to hemodialysis patients by implementing universal precaution. Little information is available regarding the frequency with which hospitals have adopted evidence-based practices for preventing HCV infection among hemodialysis patients. A cross-sectional survey has been conducted among nurses in Calabria region (Italy) in order to acquire information about the level of knowledge, the attitudes and the frequencies of evidence-based practices that prevent hospital transmission of HCV. Previous studies demonstrated that healthcare workers (HCW) inconsistencies in attitudes and practices about bloodborne viruses exist [6,7,8], and a recent study conducted in chronic hemodialysis units (HDU) in the United States has provided epidemiologic evidence of associations between specific patient-care practices and higher HCV infection prevalence among HD patients [9]. Little information is available regarding the frequency with which hospitals have adopted evidence-based practices for preventing HCV infection among HD patients. Evidence exists regarding the full prevention of HCV transmission to HD patients by implementing universal precautions [16]
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