Perception and Barriers Regarding Infection Control Measures Among Healthcare Workers in Minia City, Egypt

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to assess perception of healthcare workers (HCWs) toward infection control measures and to identify the major barriers that may hinder the proper infection control practice and to compare perception of HCWs toward infection control measures between Minia University Hospital and Minia General Hospital. The study was a descriptive cross-sectional study. METHODS: The study conducted on 350 HCWs (187 from Minia University Hospital, 163 from Minia General Hospital); data were collected using a structured questionnaire. The questionnaire was designed to assess perception toward infection control measures and to identify the major barriers that may hinder the proper infection control practice. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED: Data were gathered and entered into Statistical Package of Social Science (SPSS), version 22. RESULTS: About 85% of HCWs in Minia University Hospital compared with 82% in Minia General Hospital had a positive perception toward Standard precautions (SPs). Knowledge score was the only significant predictors of perception of HCWs toward infection control. One-point increment in knowledge score is associated with significantly 13% lower odds to have negative perception; the multivariable-adjusted odds ratio (95% confidence intervals) was 0.87 (0.81–0.95). The most frequent barrier of practice of SPs was absence of enough gloves and gowns. CONCLUSIONS: HCWs demonstrated positive perception toward infection control and SPs measures. The most frequent reported barrier against practice of SPs was absence of enough gloves and gowns. The significant predictor that hindered the practice of SPs was that “Following SPs makes work harder.”