Compliance with Standard Precautions and Associated Factors among Undergraduate Nursing Students

Abstract

Background: Adherence to basic measures is essential for the prevention of healthcare-associated infections. This study sought to evaluate adherence to conventional precautions and identify factors influencing compliance among undergraduate nursing students in Peshawar, Pakistan.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was performed involving 415 undergraduate nursing students across different academic years. Data were gathered through a structured questionnaire encompassing demographic characteristics, adherence to standard precautions, and variables including training, access to personal protective equipment (PPE), and knowledge. The data were analyzed utilizing descriptive statistics, bivariate analysis, and multivariate logistic regression.

Results: The predominant demographic of participants was female (73.5%), with the majority aged between 21 and 25 years (55.4%). Compliance rates for particular standard precautions varied from 48.2% for the use of protective clothes to 84.3% for the appropriate disposal of sharps. Factors substantially correlated with compliance encompassed year of study, instruction on standard precautions, availability of adequate PPE, and understanding of standard precautions. Multivariate analysis indicated that fourth-year students (AOR = 1.8, p = 0.003), individuals who underwent training (AOR = 2.8, p < 0.001), and those with extensive knowledge (AOR = 4.1, p < 0.001) exhibited a higher likelihood of adhering to standard precautions. The availability of sufficient PPE was a significant predictor of compliance (AOR = 2.2, p = 0.001).

Conclusion: The adherence to conventional precautions among nursing students in Peshawar is affected by their academic year, training, availability of personal protective equipment (PPE), and knowledge. Interventions to augment training, expand access to PPE, and elevate knowledge of standard precautions are crucial for improving compliance and safeguarding the well-being of both healthcare staff and patients.