A Cross-Sectional Study of Knowledge and Infection Control Practices among Under- Graduate Nursing Students

Abstract

Infection prevention and control (IPC) is essential for ensuring patient and healthcare worker safety. Nursing students, who begin clinical exposure early in their education, must possess adequate knowledge and practice of IPC to prevent healthcare-associated infections (HAIS). Aim of this study was to assess the knowledge and practices of infection control among nursing students. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 169 BSc nursing students from 2nd, 4th, and 6th semesters of a selected college in Kannur district. Tools included a demographic proforma, a 24-item knowledge questionnaire, and a 20-item self-reported practice scale. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and Pearson correlation. Results: Most students demonstrated excellent (40.23%) or good (42.01%) knowledge. Practice scores were high, with 89.34% reporting excellent practices. A moderate positive correlation was found between knowledge and practice (r =0.44, p < 0.05). Knowledge showed significant association with age, semester of study, and clinical exposure, while practice did not significantly associate with any demographic variable. Conclusion: Nursing students displayed generally strong knowledge and excellent self-reported practice regarding infection control. However, knowledge-practice gaps persist, emphasizing the need for ongoing skill reinforcement, simulation training, and structured educational interventions. A sim was developed to support these needs.