Assessing Knowledge, Attitude And Practice Regarding Personal Protective Equipment Among First Aid Centers And Clinics Of Peshawar City
Keywords:
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), Infection Prevention and Control (IPC), Healthcare Workers, Knowledge, Attitude, Practice, ComplianceAbstract
Background: Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is a cornerstone in the prevention of healthcare-associated infections and occupational hazards for HCWs. This research was conducted to determine the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of HCWs in relation to PPE use and also find out factors that potentially impact adherence to IPC protocols.
Method: A cross sectional study was undertaken involving 92 health care workers which included doctors, nurses, paramedical staff and technicians. The approach used to collect the data was structured, self-administering questionnaire based on knowledge, attitude and practice of PPE use. The relationships and predictors of PPE compliance were evaluated using descriptive statistics, Pearson’s correlation, one-way ANOVA, multiple linear regression.
Results: The results revealed that the majority of respondents had adequate knowledge (Mean = 0.97 ± 0.17), positive attitudes about PPE use (Mean = 4.72 ± 0.48) and good practice, except for minor shortcomings related to donning and doffing procedures. Eighty-point four percent participants were formally trained in IPC. The correlation analysis demonstrated that there were positive correlations between knowledge, attitude and practice (r = 0.42–0.61, p < 0.01). Knowledge (p = 0.005) and practice (p = 0.001) differed significantly between the categories in one-way ANOVA, doctors were more knowledgeable while nurses’ practices were better. Knowledge (β = 0.46, p < 0.001), attitude (β = 0.29, p = 0.002) and IPC training (β = 0.21, p = 0.006) were predictors of PPE practice in the regression while no significant effect was found for age and profession on PPE practice by regression coefficients analysis.
Conclusion: Overall, healthcare workers exhibited good knowledge, positive attitudes, and satisfactory PPE practices. However, observed gaps highlight the need for regular refresher training, improved supervision, and consistent PPE supply. Enhancing knowledge, fostering positive attitudes, and strengthening IPC training programs are essential strategies to improve compliance and reduce infection risks among healthcare professionals.
