ASSESSING PATIENTS’ KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND PRACTICES ON HEALTHCARE ASSOCIATED INFECTIONS AT AJUMAKO HOSPITAL: GHANA

Purpose: Healthcare associated infections (HAIs) remain one of the most important public health problems in many countries and Ghana is no exception. HAIs affect hundreds of millions patients globally. HAIs are among the five leading causes of death worldwide next to cardiovascular diseases, neoplasms, respiratory tract diseases, and infectious diseases. The purpose of this study was to assess the level of knowledge, attitudes and practices of patients on prevention of healthcare associated infections in a healthcare facility in Central Region, Ghana. Methodology: A cross sectional study design was used in this study. Both convenience and purposive sampling techniques were used in the study to administer the questionnaire to patients who were visiting the health facility for a period of four weeks. Descriptive statistical analysis was used to present data as frequencies and percentages. On the other hand, multivariable regression analysis was employed to examine the relationship between variables in the dataset. Data were presented with tables. Adjusted odds ratios (aORs) at 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used to present the results. Results: The study showed that the overall level of knowledge of respondents on HAIs was high (54%). Most of the patients (61%) also had positive attitudes toward HAIs, and the practices of patients toward HAIs prevention were also good (57%). Civil/public servant had higher odds of having good knowledge on HAIs than those who are self-employed [aOR=2.1, 95% CI=1.43-3.39]. Two times visitors also had higher odds of having good knowledge on HAIs than new patients [aOR=2.37, 95% CI 1.21–4.63]. Unique contribution to theory, practice and policy: Majority of patients had high knowledge on HAIs with positive attitude and good practices toward prevention of HAIs.  Health education on HAIs is recommended for all patients visiting healthcare facilities to help prevent such infections among the patients and health care workers.