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ATTITUDE AND PRACTICE OF HEALTH WORKERS IN UKPENU HEALTH CENTER, ESAN WEST EKPOMA TOWARDS INFECTION CONTROL
Abstract
The topic of this study centered on evaluating the attitudes and practices of health workers towards infection control at UKpenu Health Center. To achieve this, a quantitative survey research design was adopted, involving the development of a structured questionnaire to collect data from a sample of 120 respondents. The questionnaire was designed to assess various aspects related to infection control practices, including attitudes, adherence to protocols, and perceptions of organizational support. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS27 to present and analyze the collected data. Hypotheses were formulated and tested using t-tests to examine correlations between different variables and to determine the significance of various factors influencing health workers’ attitudes and practices regarding infection control.The findings of the study revealed several noteworthy outcomes. Firstly, there was a significant positive correlation between favorable attitudes of health workers towards infection control and their adherence to infection control practices at UKpenu Health Center. This emphasizes the importance of cultivating positive attitudes among health workers to enhance compliance with infection control protocols. However, it was also found that training and education alone did not significantly influence the attitudes and practices of health workers towards infection control. This suggests that additional factors beyond training and education may play a role in shaping health workers’ behaviors in this context. In conclusion, the study underscores the critical role of attitudes in driving adherence to infection control practices among health workers. While training and education are essential components of infection control programs, they may not be sufficient on their own to bring about significant behavioral changes. Therefore, it is recommended that healthcare institutions not only focus on providing adequate training but also work on fostering a positive organizational culture that prioritizes infection control and provides necessary resources and support to employees. Based on these findings, several recommendations can be made. Firstly, ongoing training programs should be supplemented with initiatives aimed at promoting a positive attitude towards infection control among health workers. Secondly, organizational leadership should actively support and encourage adherence to infection control protocols by providing necessary resources, implementing effective policies, and fostering a culture of accountability. Lastly, further research is recommended to explore additional factors that may influence health workers’ attitudes and practices towards infection control, with a focus on developing comprehensive strategies to enhance patient safety and public health outcomes.
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the Study
Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) are a significant challenge to patient safety and public health globally (Gadzama et al., 2022). These infections, acquired during the course of receiving healthcare treatment, can lead to prolonged hospital stays, increased healthcare costs, and even mortality in severe cases. Infection control measures are crucial in healthcare settings to prevent the spread of infections among patients, healthcare workers, and visitors (Erasmus et al., 2021). Proper hand hygiene, use of personal protective equipment, and adherence to infection control protocols are essential to reduce the transmission of pathogens and mitigate the risk of HAIs.
The attitude and practices of health workers play a crucial role in the success of infection control strategies (Habib et al., 2021). Health workers’ awareness, knowledge, and compliance with infection control guidelines directly impact patient safety and the overall quality of healthcare delivery. Studies have shown that healthcare workers’ attitudes towards infection control, including their beliefs, perceptions, and behaviors, significantly influence the occurrence and prevention of HAIs (Kampf et al., 2019). Therefore, understanding the attitudes and practices of health workers towards infection control is vital for implementing effective measures and improving healthcare outcomes.
Effective infection control requires a multifaceted approach that includes education, training, and continuous monitoring of compliance (Lee et al., 2022). Training programs aimed at enhancing healthcare workers’ knowledge of infection control protocols and best practices have been shown to improve hand hygiene compliance and reduce HAIs (Parmeggiani et al., 2020). Furthermore, interventions such as the use of safety-engineered sharp devices and the implementation of standard precautions contribute to minimizing the risk of needlestick injuries and bloodborne pathogen transmission (Hanmore et al., 2023).
In addition to individual practices, the healthcare environment also plays a critical role in infection control (D’Agata et al., 2022). Proper sanitation, environmental cleaning, and maintenance of equipment are essential to prevent the spread of multidrug-resistant organisms and other infectious agents within healthcare facilities. Guidelines and protocols for containment, as well as the implementation of evidence-based practices, contribute to reducing the burden of HAIs and improving patient safety (Chemaly et al., 2022).
The role of leadership and organizational culture cannot be understated in promoting a culture of infection control and patient safety (National Clinical Guideline Centre, 2022). Strong leadership commitment, adequate resources, and effective communication channels are necessary to ensure that infection control measures are prioritized and consistently implemented across healthcare settings. Collaborative efforts involving healthcare workers, administrators, policymakers, and infection control specialists are essential for creating a safe and hygienic healthcare environment.
In essence, healthcare-associated infections pose a significant threat to patient safety and public health, highlighting the importance of robust infection control measures. The attitudes and practices of health workers are pivotal in preventing HAIs and improving healthcare outcomes. By investing in education, training, and environmental controls, healthcare facilities can enhance their infection control strategies and promote a culture of patient safety and quality care.
1.2 Statement of Problem
The gaps and challenges in healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) revolve around several critical areas that require attention to enhance infection control and improve patient safety. Understanding the specific attitudes and practices of health workers towards infection control remains a significant gap in current research (Habib et al., 2021). This gap is crucial because the behaviors and adherence of health workers to infection control protocols directly impact the transmission of infections within healthcare settings.
Another challenge is the variability in infection control practices observed across different healthcare facilities and regions (Kampf et al., 2019). While guidelines and protocols exist, their implementation and adherence vary widely, leading to inconsistencies in infection prevention strategies. Bridging this gap requires understanding the factors contributing to these variations and developing targeted interventions to standardize infection control practices effectively.
Furthermore, there is a need to address knowledge gaps and training needs among healthcare workers regarding infection control measures (Parmeggiani et al., 2020). Not all healthcare workers may have received adequate training or education on infection control protocols, leading to gaps in understanding and implementation. Enhancing training programs and providing ongoing education can help bridge these gaps and improve compliance with infection control measures.
The role of leadership and organizational culture also presents challenges in infection control efforts (National Clinical Guideline Centre, 2022). Issues such as resource allocation, staff turnover, and competing priorities can impact the prioritization and sustainability of infection control initiatives. Aligning organizational goals with infection control objectives and fostering a culture of accountability and compliance are critical areas that require attention.
Moreover, the emergence and spread of multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs) within healthcare settings pose a growing challenge (Chemaly et al., 2022). Strategies for containment, management of MDROs, and surveillance programs to monitor their prevalence and trends are essential in combating this threat effectively.
Addressing these gaps and challenges in infection control practices, knowledge dissemination, leadership commitment, and MDRO management is crucial for enhancing patient safety, reducing HAIs, and improving overall healthcare quality.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
The following specific objectives were examined:
- To assess the attitude of health workers at UKpenu Health Center towards infection control practices.
- To evaluate the current practices of health workers in UKpenu Health Center related to infection control.
- To identify factors influencing the attitudes and practices of health workers towards infection control at UKpenu Health Center.
1.4 Research Questions
The following research questions were asked:
- What is the attitude of health workers at UKpenu Health Center towards infection control practices?
- What are the current infection control practices followed by health workers at UKpenu Health Center?
- What factors contribute to the attitudes and practices of health workers towards infection control at UKpenu Health Center?
1.5 Research Hypotheses
The following hypotheses were tested:
Null Hypotheses(H0):
- There is a negative correlation between favorable attitudes of health workers towards infection control and adherence to infection control practices at UKpenu Health Center.
- Training and education do not significantly influence the attitudes and practices of health workers towards infection control at UKpenu Health Center.
Alternative Hypotheses(H1):
- There is a positive correlation between favorable attitudes of health workers towards infection control and adherence to infection control practices at UKpenu Health Center
- Training and education significantly influence the attitudes and practices of health workers towards infection control at UKpenu Health Center.
1.6 Significance of the Study
The significance of a study lies in its ability to contribute valuable knowledge, address existing gaps, and potentially bring about positive changes or improvements in a particular field. Here are some key points on why a study’s significance is crucial:
Firstly, significance is tied to the relevance and timeliness of the study. It demonstrates why the research is important in the current context. For example, a study on the effects of climate change on a specific species of plant might be significant due to the urgency of understanding and mitigating environmental impacts.
Secondly, significance often stems from the potential impact of the findings. Research that can lead to practical applications, policy changes, or advancements in technology is highly significant. For instance, a study on a new medical treatment could have significant implications for healthcare practices and patient outcomes.
Furthermore, the significance of a study is closely related to its contribution to knowledge. It may confirm, refute, or expand upon existing theories or hypotheses. This contributes to the intellectual growth of a field and helps researchers and practitioners make informed decisions based on evidence.
Significance also lies in addressing gaps in the literature. Research that fills a gap by exploring understudied topics or using innovative methodologies adds depth and diversity to academic discourse. It helps create a more comprehensive understanding of complex issues.
Moreover, the significance of a study can extend to its potential to generate further research and stimulate intellectual curiosity. A study that raises new questions or suggests avenues for future exploration contributes to the ongoing development of knowledge within a discipline.
Additionally, significance is often tied to practical implications. Research that offers solutions to real-world problems, improves processes, or enhances quality of life can have a direct and tangible impact on society. For example, a study on sustainable agricultural practices could have significant implications for food security and environmental conservation.
Another aspect of significance is its influence on decision-making. Policymakers, industry professionals, and other stakeholders often rely on research findings to inform their actions and strategies. Therefore, studies that provide relevant and reliable information play a crucial role in shaping policies and practices.
Furthermore, significance can be seen in its potential to challenge assumptions or conventional wisdom. Research that prompts a reevaluation of established beliefs or practices fosters critical thinking and intellectual progress.
1.7 Scope of the Study
This study focused on health workers at UKpenu Health Center in Esan West Ekpoma, Nigeria. It examined their attitudes and practices related to infection control. The study included a cross-sectional assessment of attitudes, practices, and factors influencing infection control measures among health workers in this specific healthcare setting.