Hand Hygiene in a higher education institution in Salvador, BA, Brazil: student knowledge
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17058/reci.v15i4.20464Keywords:
Hand Hygiene, Nursing, Infection ControlAbstract
Background and Objectives : Hand hygiene (HH) is a pillar of quality, safety and infection prevention in health services and the object of interest to Higher Education Institutions offering undergraduate health programs. The purpose of this study was to investigate the knowledge of undergraduate nursing students on the subject of HH with a view to contributing to health safety. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study with undergraduate nursing students from a public institution located in the city of Salvador, BA. Variables studied: academic characterization and student performance. Data collection: direct observation of the HH technique and application of a form. Results: The sample consisted of 82.9% of the students enrolled. Predominance of female students (84%), aged 18 to 24 years (66.2%). Of the six steps recommended for the HH technique, only 3.6% of the students performed all the steps. A statistical correlation was identified between the semester of study and increased adherence to correct HH technique steps. Rubbing the palms of hands together interlacing fingers was the most performed step, most students (40.8%) sanitized their hands in less than 20 seconds, and although 58% identified the five moments for HH during health care, 87% did not know the recommended time for HH. Conclusion: While HH technique proficiency improved as students progressed through the semesters, overall knowledge and performance of HH techniques remained inadequate. These findings suggest that the institution must implement multidimensional teaching strategies to enhance the acquisition and retention of these essential skills in the studied program.Downloads
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Copyright (c) 2026 Eliana Costa, Tássia Macedo, Mariana Moraes, Adriana Cristina Oliveira , Rafael Carvalho, Rebeca Assis, Renata Gomes, Jaqueline Brazil , Angela Santana
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