Ways in which healthcare interior environments are associated with perceived safety against infectious diseases and coping behaviours

BACKGROUND: Global pandemic outbreaks are a cause of fear. Healthcare workers (HCWs), especially those fighting the pathogens at the front line, are at higher risk of being infected while they treat patients. In addition, various environmental fomites in hospitals, which may carry infectious agents, can increase the risk of acquiring an infectious disease. AIM: In order to deliver the best healthcare practice, it is critical that HCWs feel safe and protected against infectious diseases. The aim of this study was to improve understanding of HCWs' hand hygiene (HH) behaviours and perceptions of infectious diseases from a psychological perspective. METHODS: Environmental features were observed in three departments, and questionnaires were used to determine perceived safety against infectious diseases among HCWs and the coping behaviours they used (e.g. avoidance and disinfection). FINDINGS: This study found that an increase in the number of HH stations at convenient locations would increase HH compliance and perceived safety against infectious diseases among HCWs. In response to the current research gap in psychological aspects associated with HH, this study found that HCWs' coping behaviours can be predicted by their perceived likelihood of contamination and perceived vulnerability. CONCLUSIONS: The study findings should be interpreted with care, and further studies with more academic rigor are needed.