A survey of nurses and paramedics knowledge, attitude and compliance with infection control guidelines for hepatitis B and C in Suez canal region, Egypt
Hesham El Sayed, Sohair Mehanna, Hanan Abbas, Samar Elfiky and Zeinab Khedr
Suez Canal University, Egypt
: J Nurs Patient Care
Abstract
Aim: The aim of this is survey is to evaluate the knowledge, attitude and compliance of nursing staff and paramedics with infection control guidelines for HBV and HCV infection. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted on nursing staff and paramedics in health facilities in Suez Canal region. A 34 items self-administered questionnaire was distributed to a convenient sample of 479 nursing staff and paramedics. A knowledge score was developed to assess knowledge about hepatitis B and C source of infections and the attitude and practices of infection control in the health facilities. Results: More than 74% of the participants were exposed to blood spoilage and 59% had suffered needle stick injuries with used needle. More than 68% of the participants received training on infection control and caring for sharp instruments. Furthermore, prevention measures in case of exposure to blood spoilage or needle stick injury was generally low (47%) and it was the least among junior nurses (33%). Only 52% of participants received HBV vaccination. Knowledge about methods of prevention of blood borne infections, available treatment for HBV and HCV, infection control policy in their institutions were generally low (<47%). The overall correct knowledge of risks about modes of transmission of blood borne infection was only 50% of the studied items which included: blood transfusion, used syringes, sharing tooth brush or razors. Conclusions: Education, monitoring, improved availability or resources and disciplinary measures for poor compliance are necessary to improve infection control in health facilities, especially for junior nurses, in the Suez Canal region.
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