Background of the Study
Standard precautionary measures (SPM) are fundamental to preventing healthcare-associated infections (HAIs), protecting both patients and healthcare providers. These measures include hand hygiene, the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), safe needle disposal, and proper sanitation practices. Nurses are at the forefront of patient care and are instrumental in the implementation of these measures, as they have frequent direct contact with patients. Their compliance with these measures is essential for preventing the transmission of infections within healthcare settings (Gichuhi et al., 2023).
In Borno State, a region that has faced significant challenges, including security concerns and limited healthcare infrastructure, the effective implementation of SPM is even more critical. Despite global efforts to strengthen infection prevention and control, studies show that compliance among nurses remains suboptimal, particularly in resource-limited settings. Understanding the factors influencing compliance with standard precautionary measures in Borno State can help improve infection control practices and enhance patient safety. This study aims to evaluate nurses’ compliance with SPM in Borno State and identify factors influencing adherence.
Statement of the Problem
Nurses in Borno State play a vital role in infection control, yet there is limited information about their compliance with standard precautionary measures. Non-compliance with SPM can lead to the spread of healthcare-associated infections, putting both patients and healthcare workers at risk. Factors such as insufficient training, inadequate supplies, and high workloads may contribute to low adherence to these measures. This study seeks to evaluate the level of compliance with SPM among nurses in Borno State and identify the barriers that impact their adherence.
Objectives of the Study
1. To assess the level of compliance with standard precautionary measures among nurses in Borno State.
2. To identify the factors influencing nurses’ compliance with SPM in Borno State.
3. To recommend strategies to improve adherence to standard precautionary measures among nurses in Borno State.
Research Questions
1. What is the level of compliance with standard precautionary measures among nurses in Borno State?
2. What factors influence nurses’ compliance with standard precautionary measures in Borno State?
3. What strategies can be adopted to improve compliance with standard precautionary measures among nurses in Borno State?
Research Hypotheses
1. Nurses in Borno State demonstrate low compliance with standard precautionary measures due to inadequate training and resources.
2. Environmental factors such as inadequate PPE and overcrowded facilities negatively impact nurses’ compliance with standard precautionary measures.
3. Increased training and resource provision will significantly improve nurses’ compliance with standard precautionary measures in Borno State.
Definitions of Terms
• Standard Precautionary Measures (SPM): Infection prevention protocols that include hand hygiene, use of PPE, safe disposal of sharps, and maintaining patient hygiene to prevent the spread of infections.
• Compliance: The act of adhering to recommended guidelines or protocols in clinical practice.
• Healthcare-Associated Infections (HAIs): Infections that patients acquire while receiving treatment for medical or surgical conditions in a healthcare setting.