Research Journal of Medical Sciences
ISSN: Online 1993-6095ISSN: Print 1815-9346
Abstract
Surgical site infections (SSIs) pose a substantial threat to patient safety and healthcare costs globally. Despite advances in surgical techniques and infection control measures, SSIs remain a prevalent and potentially avoidable complication. The knowledge, attitudes and practices of healthcare providers play a pivotal role in SSI prevention. Understanding the current state of these factors is essential for developing targeted interventions. This cross‐sectional study, conducted in a tertiary hospital setting from January to June 2023, assessed 200 healthcare providers' knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding SSIs. Participants included surgeons, anesthesiologists, nurses and allied health professionals. A structured questionnaire covered knowledge, attitudes and practices related to SSIs. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and appropriate statistical tests. The study revealed variations in knowledge levels with 15% demonstrating poor knowledge 50% fair knowledge and 35% good knowledge about SSIs. Attitudes toward SSI prevention showed that 80% agreed SSIs can be effectively prevented while 60% believed adherence to guidelines is crucial. However 50% reported barriers to guideline adherence. In terms of practices 80% reported "always" practicing proper hand hygiene while 25% reported limited adherence to sterile draping and gowning procedures. Years of experience were associated with knowledge, professional category with attitudes and adherence to guidelines with both attitudes and practices. This study highlights the need for ongoing educational initiatives and interventions to address perceived barriers to SSI prevention. Ensuring consistent adherence to established guidelines and best practices is crucial for reducing SSIs and enhancing patient safety. These efforts are essential for optimizing healthcare quality and safety in both our institution and similar healthcare settings. Surgical site infections, healthcare providers, knowledge, attitudes, practices, tertiary hospital, infection control, patient safety.
How to cite this article:
Mohammad Kashif. Assessing the Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices of Healthcare Providers Regarding Surgical Site
Infections. A Cross‐sectional Study in a Tertiary Hospital.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.36478/10.59218/makrjms.2024.1.16.20
URL: https://www.makhillpublications.co/view-article/1815-9346/10.59218/makrjms.2024.1.16.20