Background of the Study
Personal protective equipment (PPE) is an essential element in infection control, particularly in healthcare settings where the risk of exposure to infectious diseases is high. PPE includes items such as gloves, masks, gowns, and face shields, which are crucial for protecting healthcare workers from pathogens, including those transmitted through blood and bodily fluids. The proper use of PPE is critical in reducing healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) and safeguarding the health of both patients and healthcare providers. In recent years, the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of PPE in preventing the spread of infectious diseases (Morris & Thompson, 2024).
At Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), a leading academic hospital in Nigeria, nurses are frequently exposed to infectious diseases due to the nature of their work. However, adherence to PPE protocols among healthcare workers, including nurses, has been inconsistent, with studies indicating that factors such as inadequate training, poor awareness, and resource limitations contribute to non-compliance (Johnson & Adeola, 2024). Nurses, who are often in direct contact with patients, are at an elevated risk of exposure to infectious agents. Thus, their awareness of the appropriate use of PPE and their ability to adhere to infection control protocols is critical for preventing the spread of infections.
This study aims to investigate the awareness and adherence of nurses at Lagos State University Teaching Hospital to PPE protocols, identifying knowledge gaps and factors influencing compliance.
Statement of the Problem
Despite the availability of PPE and infection control guidelines at Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, there are concerns about the level of awareness and adherence to these protocols among nurses. Improper use or neglect of PPE can increase the risk of exposure to infectious agents, contributing to the spread of hospital-acquired infections. Nurses play a vital role in infection control, and their ability to use PPE correctly is crucial in reducing the transmission of infectious diseases. This study seeks to examine the awareness and adherence of nurses at LASUTH regarding the use of PPE, as well as the barriers to compliance.
Objectives of the Study
To assess the awareness of nurses at Lagos State University Teaching Hospital regarding the use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
To evaluate the adherence of nurses to PPE protocols at the hospital.
To identify factors influencing the awareness and adherence of nurses to PPE guidelines.
Research Questions
What is the level of awareness of nurses at Lagos State University Teaching Hospital regarding PPE use?
To what extent do nurses adhere to PPE protocols at the hospital?
What factors influence the awareness and adherence of nurses to PPE guidelines?
Research Hypotheses
Nurses with specialized infection control training have higher awareness and adherence to PPE protocols.
The availability of PPE resources significantly influences the adherence of nurses to PPE protocols.
Nurses' adherence to PPE guidelines is influenced by their years of experience in clinical practice.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on nurses employed at Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, particularly those working in high-risk areas such as emergency departments and intensive care units. Limitations include potential biases from self-reported data and possible resource constraints that may affect PPE availability. The study may not be generalizable to other hospitals in Nigeria or beyond.
Definitions of Terms
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Protective clothing, gloves, face masks, and other gear designed to protect healthcare workers from exposure to infectious agents.
Adherence: The extent to which nurses follow established infection control guidelines related to PPE use.
Infection Control: Measures and practices aimed at preventing the spread of infections within healthcare settings.
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