Availability and Use of Protective Equipment Among Health Care Workers in Muhammad Abdullahi Wase Teaching Hospital Kano
Chapter One
Abstract
This study employed a quantitative survey research design to investigate the availability and utilization of protective equipment among healthcare workers at Muhammad Abdullahi Wase Teaching Hospital, Kano. A structured questionnaire, consisting of items aligned with the research objectives, was developed to collect data from a sample of 120 respondents, comprising healthcare professionals working within the hospital. The questionnaire included statements on the availability of protective gear, adherence to safety guidelines, and the impact of training programs on equipment utilization. Data collected were presented and analyzed using SPSS27. To test the hypotheses, a one-sample t-test, with an assumed mean of 0, was employed. The critical table value of 2.92 at a 5% level of significance guided the testing of hypotheses related to the correlation between historical trends in protective equipment availability and overall safety, the influence of effective training programs on equipment utilization, and the association between equipment availability and healthcare workers’ confidence levels. The findings revealed significant correlations between historical availability trends and overall safety, the positive influence of effective training programs on equipment utilization, and the association between equipment availability and healthcare workers’ confidence levels. These results suggest that historical trends play a role in current safety outcomes, effective training programs enhance equipment utilization, and there is a significant link between equipment availability and healthcare workers’ confidence levels. In conclusion, the study contributes valuable insights into the dynamics of protective equipment in a healthcare setting. It underscores the importance of historical trends, effective training programs, and the association between availability and confidence levels. Recommendations based on the findings emphasize the need for continuous training initiatives, strategic resource allocation, and policies ensuring the consistent availability of protective equipment. This study serves as a foundation for future research, providing a framework for further exploration and interventions to enhance occupational safety in healthcare institutions.
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
Background to the Study
Healthcare workers (HCWs) play an indispensable role in upholding societal well-being by delivering medical care and safeguarding public health (Chakraborty & Maity, 2020; Humayun et al., 2021). Their effectiveness is intricately tied to the accessibility and proper utilization of protective equipment, a critical aspect that ensures their safety and the continuity of healthcare services (Morens et al., 2020). In the context of Muhammad Abdullahi Wase Teaching Hospital in Kano, the availability and use of protective equipment among HCWs become a focal point for investigation.
The global healthcare landscape has been marked by the rise of infectious diseases, with events such as the COVID-19 pandemic underscoring the paramount importance of protective equipment (Sawhney & Kapoor, 2019). The emergence of these infectious diseases poses significant risks to healthcare workers and necessitates the implementation of stringent safety measures. The case of Muhammad Abdullahi Wase Teaching Hospital in Kano is particularly intriguing due to its role as a healthcare institution catering to a large population, making the study of protective equipment availability and utilization even more relevant (Chakraborty & Maity, 2020).
Despite the critical role of HCWs and the increased awareness of the importance of protective equipment, concerns have been raised regarding the adequacy of supplies and the adherence to safety protocols in healthcare institutions globally, including Muhammad Abdullahi Wase Teaching Hospital (Hafeez et al., 2022; Lockhart et al., 2020). The study aims to investigate the historical availability of protective equipment in the hospital, shedding light on trends and potential gaps that may have existed over the past five years (Chakraborty & Maity, 2020; Humayun et al., 2021).
Understanding the utilization patterns of protective equipment among HCWs is crucial for assessing the effectiveness of safety measures and identifying areas for improvement (MacIntyre et al., 2021; CDC, 2022). This study aims to examine how healthcare workers in Muhammad Abdullahi Wase Teaching Hospital utilize protective equipment in their daily activities, encompassing factors such as adherence to safety guidelines and overall compliance with recommended practices (Hafeez et al., 2022; WHO, 2020).
Training programs have been identified as instrumental in promoting the proper use of protective equipment among healthcare workers (Lockhart et al., 2020). The impact of training on the effective utilization of protective equipment is a key aspect addressed in the study. Findings in this regard will contribute valuable insights into the role of educational initiatives in enhancing the safety of healthcare workers in the hospital setting (Hafeez et al., 2022).
The literature indicates that the availability of protective equipment is closely linked to the confidence levels of healthcare workers in handling infectious cases (CDC, 2022; Hafeez et al., 2022). Therefore, the study will explore the perceived impact of training programs on the confidence levels of HCWs in utilizing protective equipment, providing valuable insights into the psychological aspect of occupational safety (Chakraborty & Maity, 2020; WHO, 2020).
Statement of Problem
The effective functioning of healthcare systems relies heavily on the pivotal role played by healthcare workers (HCWs) in delivering medical care and maintaining public health (Chakraborty & Maity, 2020; Humayun et al., 2021). However, the safety and well-being of HCWs are intrinsically linked to the availability and proper utilization of protective equipment, a concern that has gained prominence in the face of emerging infectious diseases, including the COVID-19 pandemic (Morens et al., 2020).
In the context of Muhammad Abdullahi Wase Teaching Hospital in Kano, concerns have been raised regarding the adequacy of supplies and adherence to safety protocols among healthcare workers (Hafeez et al., 2022; Lockhart et al., 2020). The statement of the problem encompasses a multifaceted approach to understanding the challenges faced by HCWs in the hospital. Despite the increased awareness of the importance of protective equipment, there is a need to investigate historical trends in its availability, shedding light on potential gaps and deficiencies that may have existed over the past five years (Chakraborty & Maity, 2020; Humayun et al., 2021).
Furthermore, understanding the utilization patterns of protective equipment among healthcare workers is crucial for assessing the effectiveness of safety measures and identifying areas for improvement (MacIntyre et al., 2021; CDC, 2022). This study aims to address the problem of inadequate information on how healthcare workers in Muhammad Abdullahi Wase Teaching Hospital utilize protective equipment in their daily activities. Factors such as adherence to safety guidelines and overall compliance with recommended practices will be investigated to provide a comprehensive picture of the challenges faced by HCWs (Hafeez et al., 2022; WHO, 2020).
Moreover, the impact of training programs on the proper use of protective equipment among HCWs remains an underexplored aspect in the context of the hospital (Lockhart et al., 2020; Hafeez et al., 2022). The statement of the problem highlights the need to examine the effectiveness of training initiatives in influencing the behaviour and practices of healthcare workers, contributing to the overall safety culture in the hospital setting (Chakraborty & Maity, 2020).
Objectives of the Study
The specific objectives of this study include to:
- Investigate the historical availability of protective equipment in Muhammad Abdullahi Wase Teaching Hospital, Kano.
- Protective utilization patterns of protective equipment among healthcare workers in the hospital.
- Examine the impact of training programs on the proper use of protective equipment by healthcare workers in the hospital.
Research Questions
To guide the study, the following research questions were posed:
- What is the historical trend of the availability of protective equipment in Muhammad Abdullahi Wase Teaching Hospital, Kano?
- How do healthcare workers in the hospital utilise protective equipment in their daily activities?
- What is the perceived impact of training programs on the proper use of protective equipment among healthcare workers in the hospital?
Research Hypotheses
The study tested the following hypotheses:
Null Hypotheses(H0):
- There is no significant correlation between historical trends in the availability of protective equipment and the overall safety of healthcare workers in Muhammad Abdullahi Wase Teaching Hospital, Kano.
- Proper utilization of protective equipment by healthcare workers is not positively influenced by effective training programs.
- There is no significant association between the availability of protective equipment and healthcare workers’ confidence levels in handling infectious cases.
Alternative Hypotheses(H1):
- There is a significant correlation between historical trends in the availability of protective equipment and the overall safety of healthcare workers in Muhammad Abdullahi Wase Teaching Hospital, Kano.
- Proper utilization of protective equipment by healthcare workers is positively influenced by effective training programs.
- There is a significant association between the availability of protective equipment and healthcare workers’ confidence levels in handling infectious cases.
Significance of the Study
This study holds significant implications for the advancement of the health profession, offering valuable insights into the availability and utilization of protective equipment within the specific context of Muhammad Abdullahi Wase Teaching Hospital. This contribution is essential for health professionals and scholars seeking a nuanced understanding of the challenges and successes in ensuring the safety of healthcare workers, particularly in the face of emerging infectious diseases.
The findings of this study have direct and practical implications for health providers and hospital management. Serving as a comprehensive and current resource, the insights garnered will inform decision-makers about the state of protective equipment in the hospital. This information is crucial for hospital management to make informed decisions regarding resource allocation, ensuring that healthcare workers have access to the necessary protective measures. Policymakers will also benefit from these findings in formulating and adopting policies that address the specific needs and challenges faced by healthcare workers, ultimately enhancing the overall safety and well-being of the hospital’s workforce.
Furthermore, this study contributes to the education and training of current and future healthcare professionals. Students pursuing careers in health-related fields can gain valuable insights into the real-world challenges faced by healthcare workers and the importance of protective equipment in safeguarding their well-being. Scholars in the field of occupational safety and health can use this study as a foundation for further research, building upon the identified trends and patterns in protective equipment utilization. This academic contribution is instrumental in advancing the knowledge base within the health profession, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and evidence-based practices.
Lastly, the societal impact of this study is substantial. As healthcare institutions form a critical component of public health infrastructure, the study’s findings resonate beyond the hospital walls. By enhancing the safety and preparedness of healthcare workers, the study contributes to the broader societal goal of ensuring public health and minimizing the spread of infectious diseases. The ripple effect of well-protected healthcare workers extends to the community, reinforcing public trust in healthcare institutions and promoting overall community well-being.
Scope of the Study
This study centres on investigating the availability and utilization of protective equipment among healthcare workers at Muhammad Abdullahi Wase Teaching Hospital in Kano, with a specific focus on the preceding five years. The geographical scope is confined to the hospital premises and its immediate surroundings. The research objectives aim to discern historical trends in the availability of protective equipment and analyze the patterns of utilization among healthcare workers within the specified timeframe. By examining periods both before and during the pandemic, the study seeks to understand the factors influencing the utilization of protective equipment, contributing insights that extend beyond the immediate challenges posed by infectious diseases. The research design is crafted to align with these objectives, providing a comprehensive examination of the circumstances surrounding protective equipment in the specified healthcare setting.
Operational Definition of Terms
Protective Equipment: Refers to any device or garment worn by healthcare workers to minimize exposure to hazards, including gloves, masks, gowns, and face shields.
Availability: The presence and accessibility of an adequate supply of protective equipment within the healthcare facility.
Utilization Patterns: How healthcare workers use protective equipment in their daily activities, including adherence to safety protocols and guidelines.
Training Programs: Educational initiatives designed to equip healthcare workers with the knowledge and skills necessary for the proper use of protective equipment.
Impact: The measurable effects or outcomes resulting from the availability and use of protective equipment, including the reduction of occupational hazards and the enhancement of healthcare worker safety.
Confidence Levels: The self-assessed assurance and belief of healthcare workers in their ability to effectively and safely use protective equipment.
Healthcare Workers: Individuals employed in Muhammad Abdullahi Wase Teaching Hospital, Kano, are involved in direct patient care and related activities.
Occupational Safety: Measures and practices aimed at protecting the health and well-being of individuals in the workplace, with a focus on healthcare settings in this study.
References
- Chakraborty, I., & Maity, P. (2020). COVID-19 outbreak: Migration, effects on society, global environment and prevention. Science of The Total Environment, 728(138882). https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.138882.
- Charmaz, K. (2016). Constructing Grounded Theory: A Practical Guide through Qualitative Analysis. London: Sage Publications.
- Conceição, P., & Nations, U. (2019). Human Development Report 2019. United Nations. https://digitallibrary.un.org/record/3846848?ln=en .
- Creswell, J. W., & Creswell, J. D. (2018). Research design: qualitative, quantitative, and mixed method approaches (5th Ed.). Los Angeles: SAGE.
- Easterby-Smith, M., Thorpe, R., & Jackson, P. R. (2018). Management and Business Research. London: Sage.
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