Knowledge and Practice Gaps in the use of Personal Protective Equipment among Nurses in Islamabad: A Cross-Sectional Study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.66021/pakmcr1393Keywords:
Personal Protective Equipment; Nurses; Knowledge; Practice; Infection Prevention; Hospital-Acquired Infection; Cardiology WardAbstract
Background: Personal protective equipment (PPE) is an essential component of standard precautions and is central to reducing occupational exposure and healthcare-associated infection risks in clinical settings. Nurses are frequently exposed to blood, body fluids, respiratory secretions, and invasive procedures; therefore, their knowledge and consistent use of PPE directly affect patient and staff safety.
Objective: To assess nurses' knowledge and reported practices regarding the use of PPE in clinical practice in the Cardiology Ward of Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS), Islamabad, Pakistan.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from October 2023 to January 2024 among charge nurses and student nurses in the Cardiology Ward of PIMS Islamabad. A convenience sample of 30 participants completed a structured closed-ended questionnaire covering demographic variables and 17 items related to PPE training, use, indications, hand hygiene, mask use, gloves, gowns, donning and doffing, and workplace policy. Data were summarized using descriptive statistics.
Results: Of the 30 participants, 16 (53.3%) were aged 20-25 years and 14 (46.7%) were older than 25 years. Most participants were BSN students or nurses (n=18, 60.0%), followed by Post RN (n=9, 30.0%) and General Nursing (n=3, 10.0%). Only 33% reported formal PPE training, while 67% had not received training. Appropriate PPE use in moderate-risk situations was reported by 37%, and 47% identified PPE as a preventive measure against hospital-acquired infection. Hand hygiene before mask use and correct mask removal were each reported by 40%. Perceptions and practices related to gloves, gowns, and compulsory PPE use were inconsistent.
Conclusion: The findings indicate important knowledge and practice gaps regarding PPE among nurses in a tertiary-care cardiology ward. Structured training, clear institutional PPE policies, supervised practice, and continuous monitoring are recommended to improve adherence and strengthen infection prevention.
