Abstract

This study assessed the knowledge and practice of standard precautions among nurses working at Federal Medical Centre Gombe. The objectives of the study were to determine knowledge, compliance, factors hindering the practice of universal precautions as well as ways of improving the practice. A total number of one hundred and sixty (160) nurses working at FMCG participated in the study. The demographic indices show that the respondents have different category of ranks, years of service and are located across different ward/units of the hospital. Majority of the respondents 96 (60%) are however female while 64 (40%) are male.The study showed that nurses in FMCG have deficient knowledge about standard precaution as many of the respondents were not aware that standard precautions is applied to all patients irrespective of their diagnosis and only a few have good knowledge of the components of standard precautions. The study revealed that years of experience has influence on practice of standard precaution. However, 32.5% of Nurses were not aware that standard precaution is applied to all patients irrespective of their diagnosis or presumed infection status and 71.25% have poor knowledge of the components of standard precautions. Sub-optimal utilization of protective devices was noted despite its availability. Negative attitude, limited knowledge and nursing personal were major barriers. In view of the above, change in behavior, mandatory seminars/workshops, and specific policies on universal precaution were strongly recommended. Nurses should endeavor to practice standard precaution always irrespective of the patient diagnosis or presumed infection status.