Determinants of Nurses’ Compliance with Infection Prevention and Control Practices in Critical Care Units

Abstract

Introduction: It is widely recognized that critical care environments significantly increase the risk of infection for both patients and healthcare personnel. Purpose: This study aimed to assess the determinants of nurses’ compliance with infection prevention and control practices in critical care units. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 155 nurses working in critical care units. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire that measured sociodemographic characteristics, compliance, knowledge, and perceptions of infection prevention and control (IPC) practices. Statistical analyses, including multiple linear regression, were performed to assess predictors of compliance with IPC practices. This study was conducted following the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology guidelines to ensure transparency and rigor in the reporting of the methodology and findings. Results: A total of 155 nurses participated in the study, yielding a response rate of 91.1%. Seventy-one percent demonstrated good compliance with IPC practices, while only 39.4% exhibited moderate knowledge of IPC guidelines. Experience in critical care (β=3.542, p < .05) and institutional support (β=0.246, p < .01) were significant predictors of compliance, highlighting the importance of both factors in promoting adherence to IPC practices. Conclusion: Although compliance with IPC practices was generally high, gaps in knowledge and perception suggest the need for enhanced educational initiatives and institutional support to further improve IPC adherence. Future research should focus on developing strategies that address these gaps to ensure sustainable compliance.