Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Safety Measures Among Healthcare Workers in Khana Local Government Area of River State
Abstract
This study examined the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of safety measures among healthcare workers in Khana LGA, Rivers State, Nigeria. Adopting a quantitative survey research design, a structured questionnaire was developed and administered to a sample of 120 respondents. Data collection focused on understanding the respondents’ knowledge of safety protocols, their attitudes towards these measures, and their adherence to safety practices. The data collected were analysed using SPSS27, and hypotheses were tested using a one-sample t-test. The findings indicated a high level of knowledge among healthcare workers regarding safety measures, with a significant majority affirming their awareness of standard safety protocols and the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE). The results showed that 45.4% of respondents strongly agreed and 22.2% agreed that they were knowledgeable about safety protocols. Additionally, 52.8% strongly agreed and 20.4% agreed that they understood the proper usage of PPE. This high level of knowledge was reflected in the t-test results, which showed a significant mean difference of 92.25 (t=23.511, p<0.001) from the assumed mean of zero, rejecting the null hypothesis that there was no significant relationship between the level of knowledge about safety measures and adherence to safety protocols. Attitudes towards safety measures were also generally positive, with healthcare workers recognizing the importance of adhering to safety protocols for their well-being and that of their patients. The study found that 52.8% of respondents strongly agreed and 19.4% agreed that adhering to safety protocols is essential. This positive attitude was supported by the t-test results, which showed a significant mean difference of 90.00 (t=31.493, p<0.001), rejecting the null hypothesis that positive attitudes towards safety measures are not associated with better compliance among healthcare workers. Despite the high levels of knowledge and positive attitudes, the study identified some gaps in the practical implementation of safety measures. While a significant portion of respondents reported consistent adherence to safety protocols, there were areas where compliance could be improved. For instance, only 45.4% of respondents strongly agreed that they received adequate training on safety measures, indicating a need for more comprehensive and regular training programs. The study concluded that while healthcare workers in Khana LGA possess substantial knowledge and positive attitudes towards safety measures, there are areas that require further attention to enhance compliance and practical application. The findings highlighted the need for continuous education and training, better resource provision, and a stronger safety culture within healthcare facilities. Based on the findings, several recommendations were made. Firstly, healthcare facilities should implement comprehensive and regular training programs on safety protocols and infection control measures. Secondly, cultivating a positive safety culture where safety is prioritized and valued is crucial. Management should demonstrate a commitment to safety by providing necessary resources and addressing safety concerns promptly. Thirdly, enhancing communication and reporting systems can encourage healthcare workers to report hazards without fear of retribution. Fourthly, conducting regular safety audits and assessments can help identify and address gaps in current practices. Fifthly, ensuring healthcare workers have adequate resources and equipment is essential for maintaining safety. Lastly, promoting interprofessional collaboration can enhance the implementation of safety measures, leading to more comprehensive and effective strategies.
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
Background to the Study
Healthcare workers play a vital role in ensuring the well-being of communities by providing essential medical services (Himaid et al., 2018). They are the backbone of any healthcare system, serving as frontline responders in times of need. However, their dedication to duty often exposes them to occupational hazards that pose risks to their safety and health (Zaveri & Karia, 2012). In Khana Local Government Area (LGA) of Rivers State, Nigeria, healthcare workers confront numerous challenges concerning safety measures in their daily practice (Elhabil et al., 2022). These challenges range from inadequate access to personal protective equipment (PPE) to insufficient training on infection prevention protocols (Al-Kasseh et al., 2022). Understanding the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of safety measures among healthcare workers in this region is crucial for mitigating these risks and ensuring their well-being.
Ensuring the safety of healthcare workers is paramount to maintaining the integrity and effectiveness of healthcare delivery systems (Yazie et al., 2019). Without adequate protection and support, healthcare workers may face increased risks of occupational injuries and illnesses, leading to decreased productivity and compromised patient care (Handbook of Disability, Work and Health, 2019). In Khana LGA, where healthcare resources may be limited, addressing the challenges faced by healthcare workers becomes even more critical (World Health Organization (WHO), 2020). By understanding their knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding safety measures, stakeholders can develop targeted interventions to enhance workplace safety and improve the overall quality of healthcare services in the region.
Knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding safety measures among healthcare workers serve as crucial determinants of their ability to mitigate occupational hazards (Shaheen et al., 2022). A comprehensive understanding of safety protocols and procedures is essential for effective risk management and prevention of workplace injuries and infections (Himaid et al., 2018). Moreover, positive attitudes towards safety measures can foster a culture of safety within healthcare settings, encouraging adherence to protocols and guidelines (Degenhardt et al., 2020). However, without proper training and support, healthcare workers may struggle to implement safety measures effectively, putting themselves and their patients at risk (Himaid et al., 2018).
In Khana LGA, healthcare workers may face unique challenges that impact their knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding safety measures (Himaid et al., 2018). Limited access to resources, such as PPE and training materials, may hinder their ability to effectively implement safety protocols (Al-Kasseh et al., 2022). Additionally, cultural and socioeconomic factors may influence healthcare workers’ perceptions of risk and their willingness to adhere to safety guidelines (Elhabil et al., 2022). Understanding these contextual factors is essential for designing targeted interventions that address the specific needs of healthcare workers in Khana LGA and improve their safety and well-being.
Efforts to enhance safety measures among healthcare workers in Khana LGA should be multifaceted and collaborative (Shaheen et al., 2022). Stakeholders, including government agencies, healthcare institutions, and community organisations, must work together to address the systemic challenges facing healthcare workers (World Health Organization (WHO)b, 2020). This may involve increasing access to PPE, providing comprehensive training on infection prevention, and fostering a culture of safety within healthcare facilities (Degenhardt et al., 2020). Additionally, ongoing monitoring and evaluation of safety practices can help identify areas for improvement and ensure the effectiveness of interventions (Zaveri & Karia, 2012). By prioritizing the safety and well-being of healthcare workers, stakeholders can enhance the resilience and sustainability of the healthcare system in Khana LGA.
Statement of the Problem
The research on safety measures among healthcare workers in Khana Local Government Area (LGA) of Rivers State, Nigeria, presents several critical gaps that require attention. Despite a wealth of literature on healthcare worker safety, there is a notable absence of studies specifically focusing on the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding safety measures among healthcare workers in Khana LGA (Elhabil et al., 2022). Existing research tends to offer generalized findings that may not accurately capture the unique challenges faced by healthcare workers in this particular region (Al-Kasseh et al., 2022). This gap in the literature inhibits the development of targeted interventions to address the specific needs of healthcare workers in Khana LGA and may result in the ineffective allocation of resources (Himaid et al., 2018).
Moreover, while some studies have examined the KAP of safety measures among healthcare workers in Nigeria, they often focus on urban areas or larger healthcare facilities, neglecting the distinctive challenges experienced by healthcare workers in rural or underserved regions such as Khana LGA (Yazie et al., 2019). Consequently, there is a limited understanding of the unique contextual factors influencing healthcare worker safety in these settings (Shaheen et al., 2022). Without a comprehensive understanding of these factors, efforts to enhance safety measures may fail to address the root causes of occupational hazards, potentially leaving healthcare workers in Khana LGA vulnerable.
Additionally, existing research on healthcare worker safety often relies on self-reported data, which may introduce biases or inaccuracies (World Health Organization (WHO)b, 2020). Few studies utilize objective measures to assess safety practices or outcomes, thereby limiting the reliability and validity of findings (Degenhardt et al., 2020). This methodological limitation poses challenges in accurately evaluating the effectiveness of interventions and identifying areas for improvement in safety protocols (Zaveri & Karia, 2012). Hence, there is a pressing need for rigorous research methods that yield robust evidence on the KAP of safety measures among healthcare workers in Khana LGA, facilitating informed decision-making and targeted interventions to enhance their safety and well-being.
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.
Research Questions
The following research questions were asked:
- What is the level of knowledge among healthcare workers in Khana LGA regarding safety measures?
- What are the attitudes of healthcare workers in Khana LGA towards safety measures?
- What are the practices of healthcare workers in Khana LGA concerning safety measures?
Research Hypotheses
The following hypotheses were tested:
- There is no significant relationship between the level of knowledge about safety measures and the adherence to safety protocols among healthcare workers in Khana LGA.
- Positive attitudes towards safety measures are not associated with better compliance among healthcare workers in Khana LGA.
Significance of the Study
Understanding the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of safety measures among healthcare workers in Khana Local Government Area (LGA) of Rivers State, Nigeria, holds significant implications for both the healthcare workforce and the broader community. This study’s significance lies in its potential to address critical gaps in occupational safety research and improve the well-being of healthcare workers, thereby enhancing the quality of healthcare delivery in the region.
Firstly, the findings of this study can inform targeted interventions aimed at enhancing safety measures among healthcare workers in Khana LGA. By identifying specific areas of deficiency in knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to safety, stakeholders can develop tailored training programs and initiatives to address these gaps effectively. Such interventions may include providing additional training on infection prevention, increasing access to personal protective equipment (PPE), and implementing workplace safety protocols. By equipping healthcare workers with the necessary knowledge and resources to protect themselves, this study has the potential to mitigate occupational hazards and reduce the risk of workplace injuries and infections.
Furthermore, improving safety measures among healthcare workers in Khana LGA can have positive ripple effects on patient care and public health outcomes. Healthcare workers who are adequately trained and supported in safety practices are better positioned to provide high-quality care to their patients. By reducing the risk of occupational injuries and infections among healthcare workers, this study contributes to maintaining a robust healthcare workforce capable of delivering essential medical services to the community, even in challenging circumstances.
Additionally, enhancing safety measures among healthcare workers can contribute to the overall resilience and sustainability of the healthcare system in Khana LGA. Occupational hazards not only jeopardize the health and well-being of individual healthcare workers but can also strain healthcare resources and disrupt service delivery. By investing in occupational safety initiatives and promoting a culture of safety within healthcare facilities, this study supports the long-term viability of the healthcare system in Khana LGA, ensuring its ability to meet the needs of the community now and in the future.
Moreover, addressing safety measures among healthcare workers aligns with broader public health goals, including the prevention of infectious diseases and the promotion of community well-being. Healthcare workers serve as frontline responders in disease outbreaks and emergencies, making their safety a critical component of effective public health response efforts. By prioritizing the safety of healthcare workers in Khana LGA, this study contributes to strengthening the region’s capacity to respond to health emergencies and protect the health and safety of the broader community.
Scope of the Study
This study focuses specifically on healthcare workers in Khana LGA of Rivers State, Nigeria. The research encompasses various cadres of healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, laboratory technicians, and support staff. It examines the knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to safety measures, with a particular emphasis on infection control, personal protective equipment (PPE) usage, and workplace safety protocols.
References
- World Health Organization (WHO)a. (2020). Health workforce. Retrieved May 15, 2022, from https://www.who.int/health-topics/health-workforce#tab=tab_1
- World Health Organization (WHO)b. (2020). Rational use of personal protective equipment for coronavirus disease (COVID-19) and considerations during severe shortages: interim guidance, 6 April (No. WHO/2019-nCov/IPC_PPE_use/2020.3). World Health Organization.
- Yazie, T. D., Sharew, G. B., & Abebe, W. (2019). Knowledge, attitude, and practice of healthcare professionals regarding infection prevention at Gondar University referral hospital, northwest Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study. BMC Research Notes, 12(1). doi:10.1186/s13104-019-4605-5
- Yin, R. K. (2018). Case study research and applications: Designs and methods (6th ed.). Los Angeles: SAGE Publications.
- Zaveri, J., & Karia, J. (2012). Knowledge, attitudes and practice of laboratory technicians regarding universal work precaution. National Journal of Medical Research, 2(01), 113-115.
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