NURSES’ KNOWLEDGE, PRACTICES, AND PERCEIVED CHALLENGES IN THE PREVENTION AND CONTROL OF HOSPITAL-ACQUIRED INFECTIONS IN LAHORE, PUNJAB

Abstract

Background: Due to their substantial contribution to patient morbidity, mortality, and extended hospital stays, hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) continue to pose a serious danger to world health. As the backbone of healthcare delivery, nurses play a critical role in putting infection prevention and control (IPC) plans into practice. However, systemic hurdles and differences between clinical practice and understanding frequently obstruct the best possible infection control results. Aim & Objective: The purpose of this study is to evaluate nurses' infection prevention and control (IPC) of hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) knowledge, practices, and perceived challenges in order to pinpoint important implementation gaps. Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out among registered nurses working in both public and private institutions in Punjab, Pakistan. The method of convenient sampling was used. A verified, structured questionnaire that followed CDC and WHO IPC requirements was used to gather data. Demographic information, practices, knowledge, and perceived institutional and individual challenges were all measured using the instrument. Results: 94.9% of participants comprehended the need of hand cleanliness, while the majority (96.2%) acknowledged the need for face masks in the treatment of respiratory infections. Additionally, 91.0% supported regular surface disinfection, and 96.2% recognized the importance of waste segregation in infection prevention. There is a noticeable knowledge gap, too, as just 52.6% of respondents correctly recognized that alcohol-based hand massages are not always a good alternative to hand washing. Participants also mentioned a number of issues that impede constant IPC compliance, such as a lack of administrative support, high patient-to-nurse ratios, staff shortages, a lack of personal protective equipment (PPE), and a lack of continuous training. Conclusion: It is admirable that nurses have a basic understanding of IPC, but systemic issues and inconsistent practice demand urgent correction. Strengthening IPC practices and reducing the risk of HAIs requires specialised training programs, sufficient funding, and supporting institutional policies.