Systematic Review of Hand Hygiene in Healthcare Workers

This report presents a systematic review of ten articles focusing on the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of healthcare workers regarding hand hygiene. The studies, conducted across various regions including Saudi Arabia, Nepal, Iran, and India, utilized diverse methodologies such as questionnaires, observational checklists, and cross-sectional designs to assess the level of understanding and adherence to hand hygiene protocols. Key findings across the reviewed articles indicate a moderate level of knowledge, but often suboptimal practices, with significant gaps in understanding the 'five moments' of hand hygiene and the importance of consistent adherence. The research highlights the need for targeted training programs to improve healthcare workers' awareness, address misconceptions, and promote better hand hygiene practices to reduce the risk of cross-transmission of microorganisms and improve patient safety. The studies underscore the importance of regular training sessions and educational programs to bridge the gap between knowledge and practice, thereby enhancing the overall effectiveness of infection control measures in healthcare settings.