TABLE OF CONTENTS
ABSTRACT. ii
TABLE OF CONTENTS……………………………………………………….iii
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the Study. 1
1.2 Statement of the Problem.. 4
1.3 Objectives of the Study. 5
1.4 Research Questions. 5
1.5 Research Hypothesis. 6
1.6 Significance of the Study. 6
1.7 Scope of the Study. 7
1.8 Limitations of the Study. 7
1.9 Organization of the Study. 7
1.10 Definition of Terms. 8
CHAPTER TWO
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE
2.1 Introduction. 10
2.2 Theoretical Review.. 10
2.2.1 Health Belief Model (HBM) Theory. 10
2.2.2 Social Cognitive Theory (SCT) 10
2.2.3 Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) 11
2.2.4 Diffusion of Innovations Theory. 11
2.3 Conceptual Review.. 12
2.3.2 Understanding Nosocomial Infections. 12
2.3.3 Importance of Knowledge in Infection Control 12
2.3.4 Current Practices Among Healthcare Workers. 13
2.3.5 Barriers to Effective Infection Control 13
2.3.6 Role of Training and Education. 14
2.3.7 Assessment Tools for Measuring Knowledge and Practices. 14
2.3.8 Impact of Hospital Policies on Practices. 14
2.3.9 Cultural Influences on Infection Control 15
2.3.10 The Role of Technology in Enhancing Compliance. 15
2.4 Empirical Review.. 15
2.5 Summary of Literature Review.. 17
CHAPTER THREE
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
3.1 Introduction. 20
3.2 Research Design. 20
3.3 Study Area. 21
3.4 Population of the Study. 21
3.5 Sample Size and Sampling Technique. 21
3.6 Instrumentation. 22
3.7 Validation of Instrument 22
3.8 Data Collection Procedure. 23
3.9 Ethical Considerations. 23
3.10 Method of Data Analysis. 23
3.11 Limitations of the Study. 24
3.12 Conclusion. 24
CHAPTER FOUR
DATA PRESENTATION, ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION
4.1 Preamble. 26
4.2 Data Analysis. 26
4.3 Tables based on research questions. 31
4.4 Testing Hypothesis. 40
4.5 Discussion of Findings. 42
CHAPTER FIVE
SUMMARY CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
5.1 Summary of Findings. 45
5.2 Conclusion. 46
5.3 Recommendations. 47
REFERENCES. 49
APPENDICES. 56
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the Study
Nosocomial infections, commonly referred to as hospital-acquired infections, are infections that patients get while they are in a medical facility. Patients may get these infections while receiving treatment for other conditions or even after they are released from the hospital. They also include infections that impact healthcare professionals (Oni et al. (2023). The use of invasive devices such as catheters and ventilators, which are widely used in modern medical practice, is associated with the occurrence of these infections (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2016).
Risk factors include inadequate healthcare infrastructure, such as: B. inadequate isolation units, lack of sinks and limited bed availability; poor waste management practices; contaminated medical equipment; misuse of antibiotics; and the transmission of infections due to poor hand hygiene among healthcare providers and family caregivers (Shahida et al., 2016).
According to the findings of Khan et al. (2015), the organisms commonly associated with hospital-acquired infections include Streptococcus spp., Acinetobacter spp., enterococci, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, coagulase-negative staphylococci, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus, Legionella, and members of the family Enterobacteriaceae. These microorganisms can be transmitted in a variety of ways, including through personal contact, environmental sources, contaminated water and food, infected people, the skin of health care workers, and shared objects and surfaces.
The frequency of nosocomial infections is particularly high in Africa; However, the data available on this topic is limited. A systematic review and meta-analysis of studies conducted between 2000 and 2018 estimated the prevalence of nosocomial infections in Africa to be 12.2% (95% confidence interval [CI], 9.8-14.8%) (Alemu et al., 2020).
Similar findings have been reported in Nigeria, where these infections are a major contributor to hospital patient morbidity and mortality, leading to higher medical costs and longer hospital stays. According to a meta-analysis of studies done in Nigeria, the country's overall nosocomial infection prevalence was 20.2% (Nwankwo et al. 2018). Bloodstream infections, urinary tract infections, and surgical site infections were the most commonly reported infection types. Strict adherence to established infection control protocols and guidelines is crucial for preventing nosocomial infections. To effectively lower the incidence of these infections, healthcare professionals must have a thorough understanding of the modes of transmission, related risk factors, and preventive measures.
According to research, healthcare workers' inconsistent practices and lack of knowledge can greatly contribute to the spread of infections linked to healthcare in medical facilities (Babcock et al. 2010; Marra and associates. 2018). Therefore, assessing healthcare professionals' knowledge and practices is crucial to identifying these gaps and putting targeted educational interventions into place.
Furthermore, it is impossible to overestimate the influence that education and training have on healthcare professionals' practices and knowledge.
With regards to the findings of prior studies, it is deducible that facilitated consistent awareness or training sessions can enhance the healthcare workers’ understanding of the procedures surrounding infection control measures; thus, would reduce the incidence of hospital-acquired infections (Bishop et al. (2019).
Standard protocols have been developed and resources provided but the level of adherence to protocols remains suboptimal, this point to the fact that continuous monitoring and reminding of infection control measures is required (Wenzel, 2016). A number of possible solutions have been suggested to minimize the occurrence of nosocomial infections which are an international concern. Since healthcare workers (HCWs) are directly involved in patient care and infection management, it is essential to comprehend their knowledge and practices regarding nosocomial infections in order to develop effective prevention and control strategies (Siegel et al. 2007).Top of Form
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1.2 Statement of the Problem
Nosocomial infections remain a critical challenge in healthcare settings, significantly impacting patient outcomes and increasing healthcare costs. Despite the implementation of infection control guidelines, there is a concerning variability in healthcare workers' knowledge and adherence to recommended practices. Studies have shown that gaps in understanding the transmission pathways and prevention strategies contribute to the persistence of these infections (Pittet et al., 2000). For instance, a survey revealed that a substantial percentage of healthcare workers were unaware of the appropriate protocols for hand hygiene, a fundamental measure in preventing nosocomial infections (Davis et al., 2019). This lack of awareness can lead to increased rates of HAIs, endangering patient safety and straining healthcare resources.
Furthermore, the inconsistency in practices among healthcare workers often stems from inadequate training and ongoing education regarding infection prevention. Many healthcare facilities do not prioritize continuous professional development in infection control, leading to outdated knowledge among staff (World Health Organization, 2009). As a result, healthcare workers may not fully implement evidence-based practices, exacerbating the problem of HAIs. Addressing these knowledge gaps through comprehensive assessments of healthcare workers' understanding and practices related to nosocomial infections is essential for improving infection control measures and ensuring patient safety in healthcare environments (Gould et al., 2017).Top of Form
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1.3 1.3 Objectives of the Study
The main objective of the study is to examine Assessment on Knowledge and practices of nosocomial Infection among health care workers. Specific objectives of the study are:
- To assess the level of knowledge of healthcare workers regarding nosocomial infections.
- To evaluate the adherence of healthcare workers to infection prevention and control practices.
- To identify factors influencing the knowledge and practices of healthcare workers regarding nosocomial infections.
1.4 Research Questions
To guide the study and achieve the objectives of the study, the following research questions were formulated:
- What is the overall level of knowledge of healthcare workers about the causes, transmission, prevention, and consequences of nosocomial infections?
- What is the rate of compliance with hand hygiene practices among healthcare workers?
- What are the perceived barriers to knowledge acquisition and practice implementation among healthcare workers?
1.5 Research Hypothesis
The following research hypothesis was developed and tested for the study:
Ho: There is no significant difference in the knowledge and practices related to nosocomial infection prevention among healthcare workers.
1.6 Significance of the Study
The study is important for many reasons. The following are the major stakeholders this paper through its practical and theoretical implications and findings will be of great significance:
Firstly, the paper will benefit major stakeholders and policy makers in the health care management sector. The various analysis, findings and discussions outlined in this paper will serve as a guide in enabling major positive changes in the industry and sub-sectors.
Secondly, the paper is also beneficial to the organizations used for the research. Since first hand data was gotten and analyzed from the organization, they stand a chance to benefit directly from the findings of the study in respect to their various organizations. These findings will fast track growth and enable productivity in the organizations used as a case study.
Finally, the paper will serve as a guide to other researchers willing to research further into the subject matter. Through the conclusions, limitations and gaps identified in the subject matter, other student and independent researchers can have a well laid foundation to conduct further studies.
1.7 Scope of the Study
The study is delimited to Al Iman hospital, Agege, Lagos. Findings and recommendations from the study reflects the views and opinions of respondents sampled in the area. It may not reflect the entire picture in the population.
1.8 Limitations of the Study
The major limitations of the research study are time, financial constraints and delays from respondents. The researcher had difficulties combining lectures with field work. Financial constraints in form of getting adequate funds and sponsors to print questionnaires, hold Focus group discussions and logistics was recorded. Finally, respondents were a bit reluctant in filling questionnaires and submitting them on time. This delayed the project work a bit.
1.9 Organization of the Study
The study is made up of five (5) Chapters. Chapter one of the study gives a general introduction to the subject matter, background to the problem as well as a detailed problem statement of the research. This chapter also sets the objectives of the paper in motion detailing out the significance and scope of the paper.
Chapter Two of the paper entails the review of related literature with regards to corporate governance and integrated reporting. This chapter outlines the conceptual reviews, theoretical reviews and empirical reviews of the study.
Chapter Three centers on the methodologies applied in the study. A more detailed explanation of the research design, population of the study, sample size and technique, data collection method and analysis is discussed in this chapter.
Chapter Four highlights data analysis and interpretation giving the readers a thorough room for the discussion of the practical and theoretical implications of data analyzed in the study.
Chapter Five outlines the findings, conclusions and recommendations of the study. Based on objectives set out, the researcher concludes the paper by answering all research questions set out in the study.
1.10 Definition of Terms
1. Nosocomial Infection
An infection acquired in a healthcare setting, typically 48 hours or more after admission, that was not present or incubating at the time of admission.
2. Healthcare Worker (HCW)
Any individual who provides health services in a healthcare setting, including doctors, nurses, technicians, and support staff, and who may be exposed to infectious agents.
3. Infection Control Practices
A set of procedures and guidelines designed to prevent the transmission of infections within healthcare settings, including hand hygiene, use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and sterilization techniques.
4. Knowledge Assessment
The process of evaluating the understanding and awareness of healthcare workers regarding nosocomial infections, including their causes, transmission routes, and prevention strategies.
5. Attitude Toward Infection Prevention
The perceptions, beliefs, and willingness of healthcare workers to adhere to infection control measures, which can influence their practices in the workplace.
6. Practice Compliance
The degree to which healthcare workers follow established protocols and guidelines for preventing nosocomial infections, such as proper handwashing and the correct use of PPE.
7. Surveillance of Nosocomial Infections
The systematic collection, analysis, and interpretation of data regarding infections acquired in healthcare settings to monitor trends, identify outbreaks, and inform prevention strategies.
