Abstract

This study investigates the factors influencing the implementation of disease preventive measures against hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) among healthcare workers at Buea Regional Hospital. Hospital-acquired infections pose significant health risks, impacting both patient outcomes and healthcare efficiency. Effective preventive measures, including hand hygiene, sterilization protocols, and personal protective equipment (PPE), are essential in controlling the spread of HAIs. Understanding the challenges healthcare workers face in implementing these measures is crucial to improving hospital safety and reducing infection rates.

The study employed a cross-sectional descriptive design, surveying  healthcare workers, including doctors, nurses, and auxiliary staff, selected through stratified random sampling. Data collection was conducted using structured questionnaires, covering factors such as awareness, accessibility to resources, adherence to protocols, training, and attitudes towards infection prevention. Variables examined included the influence of staff workload, availability of supplies, management support, and individual perceptions of risk on the consistency and quality of preventive practices.

Results revealed that while 78% of healthcare workers acknowledged the importance of disease preventive measures, only 55% reported consistent adherence to standard protocols. Key factors impacting implementation included inadequate access to PPE and sterilization materials, reported by 60% of respondents. Moreover, high patient load and time constraints were cited by 70% of participants as major barriers to thorough hand hygiene and equipment sterilization practices. Training also emerged as a significant influence; 65% of respondents expressed a need for regular refresher courses on infection control protocols, highlighting a gap in continuous professional education. The study found that management support significantly influenced adherence: departments with regular oversight and encouragement had higher compliance rates. Additionally, individual risk perception affected behavior; healthcare workers who perceived themselves as highly susceptible to HAIs were more likely to adhere strictly to preventive practices.

The findings suggest that addressing resource constraints, providing regular training, and enhancing management support can improve adherence to disease prevention measures among healthcare workers. Recommendations include establishing consistent supplies of PPE and sanitation materials, increasing staffing to manage patient load effectively, and conducting periodic training sessions on infection prevention. These steps could help foster a culture of safety within the hospital, mitigating the spread of HAIs and promoting a healthier work environment for healthcare providers and patients alike.

Keywords: hospital-acquired infections, preventive measures, healthcare workers, infection control, Buea Regional Hospital, compliance factors, PPE, training.