Intentions for the prevention of hepatitis B and C among healthcare workers in a tertiary facility in Ghana

Abstract

Objectives: Hepatitis B and C virus (HBV and HCV, respectively) infections pose a significant occupational hazard to healthcare workers (HCWs) globally, with increased risk due to exposure to blood and body fluids. In Sub-Saharan Africa, including Ghana, the prevalence of these infections among HCWs remains high, despite existing prevention measures. Understanding the factors influencing HCWs' preventive behaviors is crucial for developing effective interventions to reduce transmission risks in healthcare settings. This study aimed to assess HBV and HCV prevention intentions and related factors among HCWs at a tertiary hospital in Ghana.

Methods: This cross-sectional, facility-based study was conducted using a quantitative approach. Two hundred HCWs were selected using stratified random sampling. The Theory of Planned Behavior was used as a conceptual framework to determine the behavioral intentions of HCWs toward the prevention of hepatitis B and C. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and multiple linear regression. Cronbach's alpha was used to assess the internal consistency of the scales.

Results: Attitudes toward prevention were generally poor (M = 1.56 ± 0.56) and did not significantly influence preventive behaviors (β = 0.056, P = 0.427). Subjective norms showed a moderate positive influence (M = 3.14 ± 0.64, β = 0.208, P = 0.003). Self-efficacy emerged as the strongest predictor of preventive behaviors (M = 3.44 ± 0.59, β = 0.566, P $<$ 0.001), followed by behavioral intentions (M = 3.55 ± 0.63, β = 0.321, P $<$ 0.001).

Conclusions: Interventions aimed at enhancing self-efficacy and leveraging subjective norms may be most effective in improving HBV and HCV preventive behaviors among HCWs. These findings provide valuable insights for the development of targeted prevention strategies in healthcare settings, particularly in the Ghanaian context.

Keywords: Attitudes; Healthcare workers; Hepatitis B and C; Preventive behavior; Self-efficacy; Subjective norms.