Effectiveness of Structured Training Programme on Infection Control Measures among Housekeeping Workers in Selected Intensive Care Units at Tertiary Hospital

Abstract

Background: The prevalence of hospital acquired infections (HAI) varies widely across the globe. Worldwide, it is estimated that almost 10% of the hospitalised patients acquire at least one HAI. Infection control practices are simple measures to be used in the care of all patients at all times to reduce the risk of infection transmission. It is noted that housekeeping workers are at high risk of toxic waste exposure and many of them do not receive any induction training. It is therefore important for them to be trained and educated regarding infection control measures. Objectives: To evaluate the effectiveness of structured training programme on infection control measures in terms of knowledge and practice among housekeeping workers and to find association of knowledge regarding infection control measures with selected variables among housekeeping workers. Methods and materials: The study was conducted on 31 consenting housekeeping workers who met the inclusion criteria of ICU at tertiary health care facility. Baseline knowledge and practices were assessed following which structured training programme on infection control measures was conducted. Knowledge post-test was assessed immediately while knowledge and practices were assessed again after 15 days of intervention. Results: Significant improvement in knowledge from pre-test to posttest 1 (p<0.001) was recorded, while there was a decline in knowledge scores in post test 2 from post test 1 (p<0.001). The practice scores showed significant improvement after intervention (p<0.001). Conclusion: Structured training programme was effective in improving the knowledge and practice of housekeeping workers regarding infection control measures.