Qualitative study on perceptions of hand hygiene among hospital staff in a rural teaching hospital in India

Abstract

Background: Hand hygiene is a simple but underutilized measure to control healthcare-associated infections.

Aim: To explore staff perceptions of hand hygiene using focus group discussions (FGDs) in a teaching hospital in India.

Methods: Qualitative study. The FGD guide included questions on transmission of infections, hand hygiene practices and problems with implementation, and ways to improve adherence to hand hygiene recommendations. The FGDs were recorded, transcribed verbatim, translated into English (when conducted in Hindi) and analysed using content analysis.

Findings: Two themes emerged: 'inter-relationship of knowledge, beliefs, motivation, practices and needs' and 'roles and responsibilities for sustainable and efficient implementation of context-relevant approaches and interventions'. Staff were generally aware of the importance of hand hygiene for the prevention of healthcare-associated infections, but perceived practical problems with implementation.

Conclusions: The staff suggested various interventions and appeared to be prepared to follow hand hygiene guidelines if the hospital provided the necessary facilities.