Assess Knowledge Attitude and Practice level Regarding the Cesarean Section Surgical Site Infection Prevention among Nurses and Midwives in Pakistan

Abstract

Background.

 A Surgical site infection (SSI) after a Cesarean Section (CS) is the second most frequent infectious complication in the area of obstetrics.  SSI is a frequent healthcare-associated illness that can cause severe discomfort in patients, as well as prolonged hospitalization and increased costs.

Objective:

The study was aimed at determining knowledge attitudes and practices level regarding cesarean section surgical site infection prevention among nurses and midwives.

Methods:

This cross-sectional study was conducted with a descriptive design to determine knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding the cesarean section surgical site infection prevention among nurses and midwives who work in obstetrical and gynecological wards in three governmental hospitals of Karachi Pakistan.86 participants were recruited for the study, convenience sampling method was used in this study. The instrument used for data collection was a questionnaire which is composed of four parts, Demographic characteristics, Nurses’ knowledge questionnaire, attitude questionnaire, and Nurses’ practice was assessed through the checklist. Results: The results of the current study revealed that (65.1%) of the nurses expressed a poor knowledge regarding CS-SSI as described by a low average, (97.7%) of participants had negative attitudes, and (69.8 %) of the nurses expressed inadequate practice regarding CS-SSI. The P value was less than (< 0.001).

Conclusion:

Knowledge, Attitude, and practice levels among nurses and midwives working in obstetrics and gynecology wards in governmental hospitals regarding CS-SSI prevention were found to be low. Therefore, efforts have to be made to update the KAP level of nurses and midwives through education and training programs.