Understanding Infection Control among Healthcare Workers: Insights from Rural Health Units in the Philippines

Abstract

Healthcare workers (HCWs) are vital in the response to the pandemic; however, their frequent and direct contact with patients considerably increases their vulnerability to infections.This emphasizes the importance of identifying key infection risk factors and ensuring the implementation of appropriate preventive strategies. This study focuses on the importance of infection control among healthcare workers (HCWs) to prevent healthcare-associated infections (HAIs), particularly in rural settings.The research seeks to examine the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of healthcare workers (HCWs) regarding infection control protocols, particularly emphasizing the utilization of personal protective equipment (PPE) during the COVID-19 pandemic in the Rural Health Units of the Philippines. The objectives of the study include evaluating the HCWs' preparedness and adherence to infection control protocols, identifying gaps in their KAP, and informing strategies to improve infection prevention practices in rural healthcare settings. Using a descriptive-correlational research design, the study surveyed 126 healthcare workers at the rural health units of the Province of Biliran, Philippines. The findings showed that most respondents were young, female, midwives, and held a bachelor's degree. While a significant portion of the participants demonstrated a strong understanding on COVID-19 prevention and positive attitudes toward infection control, many only often practiced CoViD-19 prevention measures. A significant relationship was found between educational attainment and knowledge and attitude toward infection control. The study highlights the urgent need for targeted interventions to improve infection control practices in rural healthcare facilities. These measures are essential to ensure the safety and effectiveness of healthcare delivery in these settings, particularly in light of ongoing public health challenges, such as the COVID-19 pandemic