Knowledge and difficulties of nurses regarding basic infection control precautions
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.29352/mill0222e.44663Keywords:
knowledge; barriers; infection control; nursing; hospitalsAbstract
Introduction: Healthcare-Associated Infections (HAIs) remain a significant challenge despite the national strategies implemented for their control. Basic Infection Control Precautions (BICPs) constitute the first line of defence in preventing HAIs, making adequate knowledge among nurses essential.
Objective: To analyse the level of knowledge, perceptions, and conditioning factors that influence nurses’ adherence to BICPs in the Emergency Department of a Local Health Unit in Northern Portugal.
Methods: A quantitative, descriptive, correlational, and cross-sectional study was conducted in an emergency department, involving a convenience sample of 83 nurses. Data were collected through a self-administered questionnaire, and inferential analysis included Chi-square and ANOVA tests (p < 0.05).
Results: Most nurses presented a moderate level of knowledge (57.8%). Professional experience and academic degree showed only a positive trend in relation to overall knowledge, whereas specific training in infection control had a statistically significant impact on knowledge level. The main barrier identified was the high number of patients (79.5%). Continuous training (92.8%) was highlighted as the most effective strategy.
Conclusion: Nurses demonstrated a moderate level of knowledge, although relevant gaps persist. The findings highlight the importance of continuous training in this area and the presence of predominantly organizational difficulties.
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