Nursing Knowledge Level, Are There Room for Improvement in Hepatitis Prevention at Suez Canal Area?

Document Type : New and original researches in the field of Microbiology.

Author

Medical Microbiology & Immunology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University; Ismailia, Egypt

Abstract

Background: Healthcare workers are at increased risk of contracting and spreading hepatitis C virus (HCV), and HBV to others. Objective: The aim of study is to evaluate nursing staff and paramedics knowledge, concerning HCV, HBV and its relationship to institutional infection control facilities. Methodology: A self- administered questionnaire was distributed at fever hospital, infectious diseases hospital, Suez Canal university hospital, blood center, primary health care centers and hospitals affiliated to ministry of health, with a convenient sample of 479 nursing staff and paramedics in Suez Canal region. A knowledge score was developed about hepatitis B, C source of infections and different domains of infection control facilities and procedures, with a maximum of 17. Results:  The mean age of the participating nursing staff and paramedics was 29.55 + 8. 31. Knowledge score about mode of transmission of hepatitis, reveals that the highest level was among the student nurse which was 17.07. Concerning exposure including blood contact, blood spills and needle stick, the nurse was 61 %, while mainly head nurse to be 83% stated receiving training about infection control and care of sharp. Conclusion: We can prevent the  transmission of infection at the occupational level through standard precautions.

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