Understanding Nurses’ Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices for Nosocomial Infections at a Tertiary Hospital in Lahore

Abstract

Background: Nosocomial infections pose a significant threat to patient safety and healthcare outcomes, particularly in resource-limited settings, yet gaps persist in translating nurses’ knowledge and attitudes into consistent infection control practices. Objective: To evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding nosocomial infection management among nurses at a tertiary care hospital in Lahore, identifying key factors associated with adherence to infection control protocols. Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study recruited 100 nurses using convenience sampling. Eligible participants included staff and student nurses actively working in the hospital, with those unwilling or unavailable excluded. Data were collected via a validated, structured questionnaire assessing knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to nosocomial infection prevention. Ethical approval was obtained, and the study adhered to the Declaration of Helsinki. Statistical analyses, including descriptive statistics and Pearson correlation, were conducted using SPSS version 23. Results: Among 100 participants, 90% demonstrated high knowledge, 86% exhibited positive attitudes, but only 57% consistently adhered to recommended practices. Statistically significant positive correlations were observed between knowledge, attitudes, and practices (knowledge-attitude r = 0.681, knowledge-practice r = 0.584, all p < 0.01), highlighting the gap between awareness and practical implementation. Conclusion: Despite strong knowledge and attitudes, nurses showed inconsistent infection control practices. Targeted interventions, regular training, and supportive institutional policies are essential to bridge this gap and improve patient safety outcomes.