Knowledge and self-reported infection prevention and control practices among community health extension workers in primary healthcare facilities in Southeast Nigeria.

Abstract

Aim/Objectives To assess the knowledge and practice of infection prevention and control (IPC) among community health extension workers (CHEWs) in primary healthcare facilities in Southeast Nigeria and examine the relationship between IPC knowledge and preventive practices. Methods and results A cross-sectional study was conducted among 328 CHEWs in Ebonyi State, Southeast Nigeria, using a multistage sampling technique. Data were collected using a structured pre-tested questionnaire and analysed with IBM SPSS version 20. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were performed at p ≤ 0.05. Most respondents were female (53.7%) and had received previous IPC training (91.8%). Overall, 97.3% demonstrated good IPC knowledge. High compliance with IPC practices was reported, including hand hygiene (88.1%), consistent use of personal protective equipment (90.9%), safe injection practices (98.2%), and proper sharps disposal (95.4%). Significant associations were observed between IPC knowledge and all assessed preventive practices (p < 0.001). Discussion The findings suggest high levels of IPC knowledge and self-reported compliance among CHEWs in primary healthcare settings. Regular training, workplace monitoring, and availability of IPC policies may have contributed to these outcomes. However, gaps in hand hygiene consistency and IPC supply availability indicate the need for sustained institutional support. Significance and Impact Strengthening continuous IPC training, supportive supervision, and access to essential IPC resources may improve frontline preparedness and reduce the risk of healthcare-associated infections in resource-limited primary healthcare settings.