Access and utilization of hand hygiene practices among medical students in Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital, Kisumu County, Kenya.

Abstract

Prevention and control of infections are essential cornerstones of clinical care in all health care settings including medical learning institutions. (MOH IPC Guidelines,2010). The centre for disease Control has outlined 7 standard precautions that apply to all patient care, regardless of suspected or confirmed infection status of the patient, in any setting where health care is delivered. However, several studies show that several factors influence handwashing e.g. Knowledge of hand hygiene practices in health care settings, Attitudes and Perceptions of medical students on hand hygiene practices, Gender disparities, Availability of equipment and profession as either Nurse, Doctor or Clinical officer. Due to shortage of staff, Nurses, clinicians and doctors are often overworked and therefore lack the necessary time to adequately supervise hand hygiene practices among medical students. The main objective of this study was to explore the factors that influence hand hygiene practices among medical students in Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital. Data collection was done using a semi structured questionnaire, which was self-administered. A total of 60 students were interviewed and analysis done in excel and SPSS. The findings from this study shows that gender plays an important role in hand hygiene within clinical settings. More females 24(88%) attend CME than their Male counterparts. Nursing students 35(97%) have demonstrated good knowledge and practice of handwashing as compared to the clinical officers (79%) and medical officers (80%). Risk of exposure to a disease is the highest motivator to handwashing as (78%) Strongly agreed and most students having self priority (35%) to prevention of infections as opposed to safety for the patients. Water is generally available in clinical settings as supported by 30(50%) of the students. Hand drying towels, Soap and Sanitizers are not readily available for use even though the handwashing areas are sufficient. A small percentage (6%) of students believe that handwashing detergents corrode their skin. In conclusion there is High Awareness on hand washing but Persistent Misconceptions, Variability in Knowledge Across Cadres, Attitudes Towards Hand Hygiene and Resource Availability Issues hinder practices. Clinical practice hospitals should Enhanced CME Programs, ensure quality Resource Availability including provision of SOPs and reinforce handwashing to be an automatic behaviour by both staff and students.