Assessment Of Knowledge and Awareness in Patients Regarding Infection Control in Post Operative Care

Abstract

Background: Surgical site infection (SSI) is a postoperative complication that develops mainly in the epidermis, dermis or hypodermis layers and cavities followed by minimally or open surgical procedures. The most common causes of surgical site infection include gram positive and gram-negative bacteria. Development of surgical site infection depends on different factors which constitute the health of the patient’s immunity condition in the presence of microbes and use of antibiotic prophylaxis.

Methodology: The purpose of this descriptive cross-sectional study is to assess patients' awareness and understanding of infection control in post-operative care inside at Jinnah Teaching Hospital Peshawar. The study evaluated the patients' age, gender, and level of education in addition to their understanding of infection control practices. The date was collected using a validated structured questionnaire and analyzed by SPSS.

Result: The findings of this study show that only 30% of patients recognized the symptoms of surgical site infections (SSIs), such as fever, redness, and delayed healing, and 35.2% of patients showed inadequate awareness of infection control; 53.3% of participants knew how to handle wound care; and 45.4% reported wearing personal protective equipment as needed. The data also revealed that most participants (41.9%) were between the ages of 26 and 45, with a nearly equal gender distribution (50.2% female, 49.8% male). To improve patient comprehension of infection prevention strategies and reduce post-operative complications, the study emphasizes the significance of focused educational interventions. Structured awareness campaigns, precise wound care instructions, and proactive patient education by medical staff are among the recommendations.