Assessment of infection prevention and control practices among healthcare workers of primary health care centers in Baghdad, Iraq - 2024

Abstract

Background: Infection prevention and control is essential in minimizing the transmission of infectious agents, especially within healthcare environments. Effective infection prevention and control is crucial for safeguarding both patients and healthcare workers, particularly in high-risk settings. Aim: This study aimed to determine the level of infection control practices among healthcare workers in primary healthcare centers in Baghdad, Iraq. Subjects and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from May to October 2024, involving 404 healthcare workers in 26 governmental primary healthcare centers in Baghdad city. Results: Overall, 49.3% of participants demonstrated good infection control practices. Profession was the most significant factor influencing adherence to proper protocols, with higher-risk professions, such as dentists and laboratory staff, showing better compliance. Seventy-four percent, 28.9%, 96.5%, and 82.4% of healthcare workers demonstrated good practices in hand hygiene, personal protective equipment use, healthcare waste disposal, and needle stick injuries prevention, respectively. Conclusion: The study findings indicates a moderate level of adherence to proper infection prevention and control protocols. Profession, particularly higher-risk roles like dentists and laboratory staff, influenced practice. While healthcare workers generally followed good practices, adherence to protective equipment usage was less consistent. The findings highlight the need for targeted interventions and ongoing education to improve compliance, particularly with protective equipment.