A cross-sectional study to assess the knowledge and practices regarding prevention of healthcare associated infections (HAIs) in pediatric care units among nursing personnel working in selected hospitals of Meghalaya

Abstract

Healthcare Associated Infections (HAIs) are those infections that manifest among patients only after 48 hours of hospital stay. HAIs can lead to significant morbidity, mortality and economic burden. As these infections are acquired under health-care, they are preventable. This study aims to assess the knowledge and practices regarding the prevention of HAIs among Nursing Personnel working in pediatric care units in selected Hospitals of Meghalaya.A cross-sectional study was conducted using a structured self-administered questionnaire among Nursing Personnel working in selected Hospitals of Meghalaya.100 Nursing Personnel were selected by total census enumeration sampling.The study reveals that 69% had average knowledge, 24% had poor knowledge, and only 7% had good knowledge regarding HAI prevention. In terms of practice, 46% demonstrated fair practices, 44% had poor practices, and only 10% exhibited good practices.A significant association was found between knowledge and age (p = 0.003) as well as years of working experience (p = < 0.001). On further analysis, there was a significant association between practice and age (p = 0.049). Additionally, A weak positive correlation was observed between knowledge and practice (r = 0.396, p = < 0.001).The study reveals that majority of the Nursing Personnel have average knowledge and practices concerning the prevention of HAIs in pediatric care units and only a few demonstrate a high level of knowledge and effective practices.