Process Evaluation of Infection Prevention and Control Policies at the Greater Accra Regional Hospital.

Abstract

Background: Healthcare Associated Infection (HCAI) is a public health problem affecting hospitalized patients and healthcare workers, as they increase cost, morbidity, mortality and antibiotic resistance and the likelihood of being exposed to infections. The Center for Disease Control considers HCAIs as one of the commonest complications of health care management and admonishes the formulation and implementation of guidelines to prevent or control HCAIs in health facilities. However, there is limited evidence of how infection prevention control policies are implemented in healthcare facilities in Ghana. Objectives: This aim of the study was to evaluate the implementation of infection prevention and control guidelines at the Greater Accra Regional Hospital (GARH). Specifically, the study assessed the knowledge of healthcare workers on infection prevention control policies, the various types of HCAIs; the risk factors associated with surgical site infections on patients; and the implementation of the guidelines employed to control and prevent surgical site infections in the hospital. Methods: This was an exploratory qualitative study involving in-depth interviews and observations. Twenty-five interviews were conducted with participants purposively selected because of their experience of either providing care (15 health workers) or receiving care (10 patients) at the Greater Accra Regional Hospital. A checklist was used to interview participant. Data were analyzed using thematic content analysis. Results: The study found that majority (90%) of the respondents were knowledgeable about Health Care Associated Infections and familiar with the recommendations in the Infections Prevention and Control guidelines at the hospital. On the control of infections, all participants agreed that transmission of hospital acquired infections can be prevented through personal hygiene nd adhering to protocols. Most participants reported that surgical site infections are the most common HCAI at the GARH, particularly in the operating theatre, and that staff members working in the emergency wards are particularly vulnerable due to the nature of their jobs. Conclusion: Almost all the respondents reported having good knowledge on the IPC policies at the GARH. Compliance of healthcare professionals is essential to achieve universal, quality, and safe healthcare and a safe working environment.