The Impact of Proper Hand Hygiene Among Nurses on Pediatric Infection Prevention in Bauchi State
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- NGN 5000
Background of the Study
Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) are a major cause of morbidity and mortality in pediatric patients, particularly in resource-limited settings. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that poor hand hygiene contributes to 50–70% of HAIs, making it one of the most preventable causes of infection in healthcare facilities (WHO, 2024). Children, especially neonates and immunocompromised patients, are highly vulnerable to infections due to their underdeveloped immune systems.
Proper hand hygiene among nurses plays a critical role in infection prevention, reducing the transmission of pathogens within hospital environments (Pittet et al., 2023). Despite global campaigns promoting hand hygiene, compliance among healthcare workers in Nigeria remains suboptimal, with studies citing workload, inadequate facilities, and lack of awareness as key barriers (Afolabi & Musa, 2023).
In Bauchi State, where pediatric infections such as pneumonia, sepsis, and diarrhea are prevalent, improving hand hygiene practices among nurses could significantly reduce infection rates. This study seeks to assess the impact of proper hand hygiene among nurses on pediatric infection prevention and explore factors influencing adherence to hand hygiene protocols.
Statement of the Problem
Pediatric infections continue to pose a significant burden on the healthcare system in Bauchi State, leading to prolonged hospital stays, increased medical costs, and avoidable deaths. Despite established guidelines on hand hygiene, adherence among nurses remains inconsistent due to factors such as lack of soap, sanitizers, and time constraints (Bello & Garba, 2024).
If hand hygiene compliance does not improve, pediatric infection rates will remain high, endangering the health of vulnerable children and increasing healthcare costs. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of proper hand hygiene practices among nurses in reducing pediatric infections and to identify barriers to compliance.
Objectives of the Study
- To assess the impact of proper hand hygiene among nurses on pediatric infection prevention.
- To examine the level of compliance with hand hygiene protocols among nurses in Bauchi State.
- To identify barriers to effective hand hygiene practices in pediatric healthcare settings.
Research Questions
- How does proper hand hygiene among nurses influence pediatric infection prevention?
- What is the level of compliance with hand hygiene protocols among nurses in Bauchi State?
- What are the barriers to effective hand hygiene practices in pediatric healthcare settings?
Research Hypotheses
- Proper hand hygiene among nurses significantly reduces pediatric infections.
- Compliance with hand hygiene protocols among nurses in Bauchi State is suboptimal.
- Various barriers hinder the effective implementation of hand hygiene practices in pediatric healthcare settings.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on nurses working in pediatric wards, neonatal intensive care units (NICUs), and primary healthcare centers in Bauchi State. The study may be limited by self-reported bias in compliance levels, lack of standardized infection control records, and variations in healthcare facility resources.
Definitions of Terms
- Hand Hygiene: The practice of cleaning hands using soap and water or hand sanitizers to prevent the spread of infections.
- Healthcare-Associated Infections (HAIs): Infections acquired during medical care that were not present at the time of admission.
- Pediatric Infection Prevention: Strategies used to reduce the risk of infections in children receiving healthcare.
