Assessment of the Nurses' Knowledge, Attitudes, And Practices Toward Infection Control Precautions at Shar Hospital in Sulaimani/Iraq

Abstract
Background: Infection control is a crucial aspect of patient safety programs and is the responsibility of healthcare nurses. These programs encompass processes and activities aimed at identifying and mitigating the transmission risk of infection among people. The study's primary aim was to evaluate nurses' knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding infection control precautions at Shar Hospital in Sulaimani Province, Iraq.
Method: Data were collected from November 1, 2022, to January 1, 2023, from the nurses at Shar Hospital in Sulaimani city in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. Direct interviews with all nurses ensured the collection of accurate data regarding infection control.
Results: The majority of nurses at Shar Hospital demonstrated favorable attitudes, sufficient knowledge, and safe practices concerning infection control precautions. Nurses with less than one year of experience exhibited more knowledge regarding infection control and prevention than others. Males demonstrated better practical skills, and younger nurses aged 18-29 had better infection prevention practices.
Conclusion: As a general, the nurses still need to be equipped with good knowledge and better practice about the infection control and prevention measures, while they have a good attitude toward them. It is crucial to adapt infection control practices to local contexts, considering available resources, cultural factors, and public health needs.