Assessing Infection Control Practices Among Health Care Workers At Levy Mwanawasa University Teaching Hospital: A Knowledge, Attitudes And Practice Study

Abstract

This study investigates the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding infection prevention and control (IPC) among healthcare workers at Levy Mwanawasa University Teaching Hospital. The primary aim was to evaluate how these dimensions interact and influence IPC compliance, with a specific focus on role-based differences and structural barriers. A cross-sectional design was employed, involving 30 healthcare workers across various roles. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Findings revealed high knowledge levels (M = 2.90/3) and positive attitudes (M = 1.70/2), yet practice scores were more varied (M = 3.00/5). Notably, attitude significantly correlated with practice (r = .35, p = .047), while knowledge did not. Practice scores differed significantly by job role (F(3,26) = 5.67, p = .004), with nurses exhibiting the highest compliance. Structural barriers such as lack of resources (53%) and high patient loads (30%) emerged as critical deterrents to IPC adherence. These results underscore the importance of targeted, role-specific interventions that go beyond knowledge dissemination. Enhancing attitudes, improving resource availability, and implementing structured monitoring systems are recommended to strengthen IPC adherence and safeguard patient safety.