Knowledge, attitude and practices of effective handwashing among clients receiving health care services at Apac General Hospital. A cross-sectional study.
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.70572/agp.v3i4.35Keywords:
Knowledge, Attitude and Practices, Hand washing, Health care services, Apac district, WASHAbstract
Background:
Handwashing is a key measure to prevent cross-infection with microorganisms and Hospital-Acquired Infections. The study aims to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practices of hand washing among the people seeking health care services at APAC General Hospital, APAC district.
Methodology:
A cross-sectional study design that employed a quantitative method of collecting, organising, and presenting data. The study population was of clients who came to seek health care services in Apac general hospital, with a sample size of 30 participants, using a simple random sampling selection procedure.
Results:
(30%) were 15-25 years old, (36.7%) were 26-35 years, (26.7%) were 36-45 years, (6.6%) were 46 and above. 27(90%) had information on the hand washing using the soap and 3(10%) had no information. 25(83.3%) reported that health workers normally advised them to wash their hands when they come to the hospital. 40% reported that their hands become visibly dirty after meals. 17(56.7%) of the respondents wash their hands in the morning, and only 13(43.3%) said they don’t wash their hands in the morning. 20(66.7%) Said they use water and soap and 10(33.3%) said they use water only. All the respondents (100%) reported that poor hand washing exposes one to germs. 19(63.3%) reported that only water is not enough for hand washing,
Conclusion:
Clients seeking health care services in Apac hospital demonstrated a positive level of knowledge and awareness about hand washing, with low indicators of the need for awareness regarding the importance of cleaning and disinfecting hospital objects. The analysis also revealed a positive attitude, behavior/practices towards hand washing, and a relatively good culture of hand hygiene practices.
Recommendation:
WHO and MoH should formulate more policies and guidelines concerning hand washing, and ensure IEC materials reach the lower health care units.
References
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