ASSESS THE KNOWLEDGE OF NURSING STUDENTS REGARDING HAND HYGIENE IN A PRIVATE NURSING COLLEGES

Abstract

Background: Hand hygiene is the most effective and simple measure for preventing healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) in clinical settings. Nursing students, as future healthcare providers, are regularly exposed to clinical environments where proper hand hygiene knowledge is essential to prevent cross-contamination and ensure patient safety.

Objective: To assess the knowledge of nursing students regarding hand hygiene in a private nursing college (Mustafa Kamal Institute of Nursing and Medical Sciences, Vehari).

Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 104 nursing students using a structured self-administered questionnaire based on WHO hand hygiene guidelines. Data was collected through a non-probability convenience sampling technique. The questionnaire included demographic variables and hand hygiene knowledge items. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 26, applying descriptive statistics such as frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation.

Results: The findings revealed that the majority of students demonstrated moderate knowledge of hand hygiene principles. Most students were aware of the basic importance of hand hygiene in infection prevention. However, gaps were identified in specific areas, including the correct duration of alcohol-based hand rub use, all five moments of hand hygiene, and specific handwashing techniques.

Conclusion: Nursing students possess a moderate level of hand hygiene knowledge, with notable gaps in specific technical aspects. Strengthening hand hygiene education through practical training, simulation-based sessions, and regular workshops is recommended to improve compliance and patient safety outcomes.