Practices and an assessment of health care workers' perceptions of compliance with infection control knowledge of nosocomial infections

Abstract

The impact of nosocomial infections, including associated mortality, morbidity, and attributable cost is well documented. Infection control practices, such as handwashing and use of gloves and gowns, have proven to be effective. Because many nosocomial infections result from cross transmission, primarily via the hands of health care workers (HCWs), handwashing remains the single most important means to prevent the transmission of nosocomial pathogens. Although most HCWs are aware of the rationale for infection control practices, compliance is generally poor. HCWs have cited various reasons for noncompliance, including insufficient time, inaccessible supplies, and lack of knowledge. Little is known about the factors that motivate HCWs to comply with infection control practices. The purpose of this study was 3-fold. First, it was to assess HCWs’ perceptions of adherence to infection control practices including isolation guidelines and hand hygiene using an antiseptic soap or an alcoholbased hand sanitizer product. Additionally, we sought to measure motivational factors for compliance. Last, we sought to assess beliefs regarding the etiology and prevention of nosocomial infections.