EVALUATION OF HAND HYGIENE COMPLIANCE AMONG HEALTHCARE WORKERS IN A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL
Keywords:
Hand Hygiene;, Healthcare Workers;, Compliance; Healthcare-Associated Infections, Infection Prevention.Abstract
Background: Hand hygiene is a fundamental infection prevention and control measure for
reducing healthcare-associated infections and improving patient safety. Despite established
guidelines, compliance among healthcare workers remains variable.
Objective: To evaluate hand hygiene compliance among healthcare workers in a tertiary care
hospital and identify factors influencing adherence.
Methods: A hospital-based observational cross-sectional study was conducted among 200
healthcare workers. Direct observation using the World Health Organization (WHO) Five
Moments for Hand Hygiene framework was employed to assess compliance. Data were analyzed
using descriptive and inferential statistics.
Results: A total of 1,800 hand hygiene opportunities were observed, of which 1,170 hand hygiene
actions were performed, resulting in an overall compliance rate of 65.0%. Nurses demonstrated
the highest compliance (71.9%), while interns showed the lowest (57.8%). Compliance was
highest after body fluid exposure risk (85.0%) and lowest before touching a patient (55.2%).
Recent training and availability of alcohol-based hand rubs were significantly associated with
higher compliance.
Conclusion: Hand hygiene compliance was moderate among healthcare workers. Continuous
training, regular audits, and improved accessibility of hand hygiene facilities are essential to
enhance adherence and strengthen infection prevention practices.
