Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Safety Measures Among Healthcare Workers in Khana Local Government Area of River State
Chapter One
Purpose of the Study
The primary purpose of this study is to examine the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of safety measures among healthcare workers in Khana LGA. Specifically, the study aims to:
- Assess the level of knowledge among healthcare workers in Khana LGA about safety measures, including their understanding of infection prevention and the use of personal protective equipment.
- Examine the attitudes of healthcare workers in Khana LGA towards safety measures, including their beliefs about the importance and effectiveness of safety protocols.
- Investigate the safety practices of healthcare workers in Khana LGA, such as their adherence to infection control guidelines, use of protective gear, and participation in safety training programs.
CHAPTER TWO
LITERATURE REVIEW
Conceptual Review
Occupational Safety Measures
Occupational safety measures in healthcare settings encompass a range of protocols and practices aimed at protecting the well-being of healthcare workers and minimizing the risk of workplace injuries and infections (Degenhardt et al., 2020). These measures include the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), adherence to infection control guidelines, and implementation of workplace safety protocols (Berg, 2019). PPE such as gloves, masks, and gowns are essential components of occupational safety measures, serving as barriers against exposure to infectious agents and other hazards in healthcare environments (Goniewicz et al., 2022). Additionally, infection control protocols, such as hand hygiene practices and environmental cleaning, are crucial for preventing the spread of pathogens and maintaining a safe working environment (World Health Organization (WHO), 2020).
The importance of occupational safety measures in healthcare settings cannot be overstated, as healthcare workers are routinely exposed to various occupational hazards that pose risks to their health and well-being (Yazie et al., 2019). Occupational hazards in healthcare settings include biological hazards such as exposure to infectious diseases, chemical hazards from hazardous substances used in medical procedures, and physical hazards such as ergonomic strain and workplace violence (Mahmood & Hashim, 2018). Without adequate safety measures in place, healthcare workers are at increased risk of occupational injuries, illnesses, and psychological distress, which can have detrimental effects on their health and ability to provide quality care to patients (Handbook of Disability, Work and Health, 2019).
Moreover, occupational safety measures play a vital role in safeguarding patient safety and preventing the transmission of healthcare-associated infections (Al-Kasseh et al., 2022). Healthcare-associated infections pose a significant public health threat, contributing to increased morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs (Amukugo et al., 2021). By implementing robust occupational safety measures, healthcare facilities can reduce the risk of healthcare-associated infections among patients and protect vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and immunocompromised individuals (World Health Organization (WHO)b, 2020). Additionally, adherence to safety protocols by healthcare workers helps maintain the integrity of medical equipment and supplies, ensuring their safe and effective use in patient care (Shaheen et al., 2022).
Knowledge of Safety Measures
In healthcare settings, knowledge of safety measures is essential for healthcare workers to effectively mitigate occupational hazards and protect themselves and their patients (Goswami et al., 2021). Understanding infection prevention protocols is crucial for preventing the transmission of infectious diseases and maintaining a safe working environment (Qaraman et al., 2022). Healthcare workers must be knowledgeable about proper hand hygiene practices, disinfection procedures, and isolation protocols to minimize the risk of healthcare-associated infections and protect vulnerable patients (Robyn Correll, 2022).
Familiarity with personal protective equipment (PPE) is another critical aspect of healthcare workers’ knowledge of safety measures (Loeppke et al., 2023). Healthcare workers must understand the appropriate use, selection, and maintenance of PPE to effectively protect themselves from exposure to biological, chemical, and physical hazards in the workplace (New Amnesty Analysis (NAA), 2020). This includes knowledge of different types of PPE, such as gloves, masks, gowns, and goggles, and when and how to use them based on the specific tasks and risks encountered in healthcare settings (Takala, n.d.).
CHAPTER THREE
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
Research Design
A survey research design was utilized to gather quantitative data on healthcare workers’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding safety measures (Bell, 2022). This design facilitated the efficient collection of data from a large sample size, enabling comprehensive insights into the perceptions and behaviours of the target population. The survey questionnaire was structured to capture relevant information related to safety measures and was administered to healthcare workers in Khana LGA.
Population of the Study
The target population comprised healthcare workers in Khana LGA, Rivers State, Nigeria, totalling approximately 1200 individuals. The selection of this population size was justified based on the need to obtain a representative sample that reflects the diversity of healthcare professionals within the region (Charan & Biswas, 2019). The inclusion criteria encompassed healthcare workers from various specialities and healthcare facilities within Khana LGA.
CHAPTER FOUR
DATA PRESENTATION, ANALYSIS AND DISCUSSION
Data Presentation
CHAPTER FIVE
SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Summary of Findings
This study examined the knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to safety measures among healthcare workers in Khana Local Government Area (LGA), Rivers State, Nigeria. By surveying 108 healthcare workers, the research aimed to identify the factors influencing safety compliance and to suggest improvements for enhancing workplace safety. The findings highlight critical areas of strength and areas requiring attention within the healthcare sector.
The data revealed that healthcare workers in Khana LGA possessed a high level of knowledge regarding safety measures. The survey showed that a significant majority of respondents were aware of standard safety protocols and understood the proper usage of personal protective equipment (PPE). For instance, 67.6% of respondents either strongly agreed or agreed that they were knowledgeable about standard safety protocols. Additionally, 73.1% affirmed their understanding of the proper use of PPE. The high knowledge levels were statistically significant, with a t-value of 23.511, indicating a robust understanding of infection prevention and PPE usage.
These findings were consistent with previous studies suggesting that continuous professional development and regular training sessions significantly enhanced healthcare workers’ knowledge (Saunders, Lewis, & Thornhill, 2019). The implication was clear: ongoing education and training initiatives were essential for maintaining and improving knowledge levels. Ensuring that healthcare workers remained informed about the latest safety protocols and best practices was crucial for effective safety management.
The attitudes of healthcare workers towards safety measures were predominantly positive. Most respondents acknowledged the importance of adhering to safety protocols for the well-being of both patients and healthcare workers. According to the data, 72.2% of the participants believed that adhering to safety protocols was essential. This positive attitude was further reinforced by the significant t-value of 31.493, indicating a strong association between positive attitudes and safety compliance.
The positive attitudes could be attributed to an organizational culture that emphasized the importance of safety. Management’s commitment to promoting a safe work environment, as evidenced by 73.1% of respondents agreeing that their management demonstrated a commitment to safety, played a vital role. This finding aligned with the Social Cognitive Theory, which emphasized the influence of social environments on individual behaviour (Morse et al., 2022). A supportive management that visibly prioritized safety fostered an environment where healthcare workers felt motivated to adhere to safety protocols.
The practices related to safety measures among healthcare workers were generally commendable. A majority of the respondents reported consistent adherence to safety protocols and active participation in safety training sessions. For example, 73.1% indicated that they consistently followed safety protocols, and 65.7% participated in safety training sessions. The significant t-value of 82.7500 further confirmed that high levels of knowledge and positive attitudes were translating into safe practices.
However, there were areas of concern. Not all respondents felt they received adequate training and information regarding safety measures. Specifically, 26.8% of respondents either strongly disagreed or disagreed that they received adequate training. This suggested that while overall practices were good, there was room for improvement in training adequacy. Continuous and comprehensive training programs were essential to ensure that all healthcare workers felt adequately informed and prepared. This finding underscored the need for healthcare facilities to evaluate and enhance their training programs regularly (Frankfort-Nachmias, Nachmias, & DeWaard, 2021).
The study’s findings had several implications for healthcare policy and practice in Khana LGA. First, the significant relationship between knowledge and adherence to safety protocols suggested that educational initiatives should be a cornerstone of occupational safety strategies. Regular training sessions, workshops, and up-to-date informational resources were vital. The findings reinforced the need for continuous professional development to maintain high standards of knowledge among healthcare workers.
Second, the positive correlation between attitudes towards safety and compliance underscored the importance of cultivating a safety-oriented culture within healthcare institutions. Leadership should actively promote safety through visible commitments and support mechanisms. Recognizing and rewarding safe practices could further reinforce positive attitudes towards safety measures.
Additionally, the identified gaps in training adequacy needed immediate attention. Policies should ensure that all healthcare workers have access to comprehensive training that covers all aspects of occupational safety, from infection control to the correct use of PPE. Addressing these gaps would further enhance safety practices, ensuring the well-being of both healthcare workers and patients.
Conclusion
The results from the hypotheses tested in this study provided valuable insights into the relationship between knowledge, attitudes, and safety practices among healthcare workers in Khana Local Government Area (LGA), Rivers State, Nigeria. The first hypothesis tested whether there was a significant relationship between the level of knowledge about safety measures and adherence to safety protocols. The one-sample t-test result, with a significant t-value of 23.511, clearly indicated that there was a strong relationship. Healthcare workers with higher levels of knowledge were more likely to adhere to safety protocols. This finding underscored the importance of continuous education and training in enhancing safety compliance. Thus, the null hypothesis was rejected, confirming that knowledge significantly influenced adherence to safety measures.
The second hypothesis examined the association between positive attitudes towards safety measures and compliance among healthcare workers. The t-test yielded a significant t-value of 31.493, demonstrating a robust positive correlation between attitudes and compliance. Healthcare workers who held positive beliefs about the importance and effectiveness of safety protocols were more likely to follow them. This result reinforced the role of positive organizational culture and management support in promoting safety practices. The null hypothesis was again rejected, establishing that positive attitudes were indeed associated with better compliance.
In conclusion, the findings highlighted the critical role of both knowledge and attitudes in ensuring effective safety practices among healthcare workers. The significant relationships between these variables and safety compliance emphasized the need for comprehensive training programs and a supportive safety culture within healthcare institutions. By fostering a well-informed and positively inclined workforce, healthcare facilities in Khana LGA can enhance adherence to safety protocols, thereby improving overall workplace safety and patient care outcomes. The study’s results provided a clear mandate for healthcare administrators to invest in ongoing education and cultivate an environment where safety is a shared priority.
Recommendations
Based on the findings of the study, the following six recommendations are proposed to enhance safety practices among healthcare workers in Khana LGA, Rivers State, Nigeria:
- Implement Comprehensive Training Programs: Healthcare facilities should develop and implement comprehensive training programs focusing on safety protocols and infection control measures. These programs should be mandatory for all healthcare workers and regularly updated to reflect current best practices and emerging health threats. Continuous education will ensure that staff are well-informed and capable of adhering to safety standards.
- Cultivate a Positive Safety Culture: Healthcare institutions must cultivate a positive safety culture where safety measures are prioritized and valued. Management should demonstrate a commitment to safety by providing necessary resources, recognizing and rewarding compliance, and addressing safety concerns promptly. Creating an environment that supports and values safety can enhance overall adherence to safety protocols.
- Enhance Communication and Reporting Systems: Establishing clear and efficient communication and reporting systems can encourage healthcare workers to report hazards and safety incidents without fear of retribution. Anonymous reporting mechanisms and regular feedback loops can help identify and address safety issues promptly, fostering a more proactive approach to managing occupational health risks.
- Regular Safety Audits and Assessments: Conducting regular safety audits and assessments can help identify gaps in current practices and areas for improvement. These audits should evaluate compliance with safety protocols, the availability and proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and the overall safety climate within the organization. Findings from these audits should inform targeted interventions to address specific issues.
- Provide Adequate Resources and Equipment: Ensuring that healthcare workers have access to adequate resources and equipment is essential for maintaining safety. This includes providing sufficient PPE, ensuring the availability of sanitation and sterilization supplies, and maintaining equipment in good working condition. Adequate resources can empower healthcare workers to perform their duties safely and effectively.
- Promote Interprofessional Collaboration: Encouraging interprofessional collaboration can enhance the implementation of safety measures. Healthcare workers from different disciplines should work together to develop and enforce safety protocols. Regular interdisciplinary meetings and collaborative problem-solving sessions can lead to more comprehensive and effective safety strategies, benefiting both healthcare workers and patients.
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