Kaluhath Gayathree Lalanga De Abrew ¹, Deshapriya S¹, Gamage P¹
1- National Hospital Galle, Sri Lanka
Corresponding Author:
Kaluhath Gayathree Lalanga De Abrew (
gayathreemfc@gmail.com)
Abstract Body
Introduction: Hand hygiene is the most effective measure to prevent hospital-acquired infections, particularly in high-risk areas such as the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU). Adherence to the World Health Organization (WHO) “Five Moments for Hand Hygiene” is essential to reduce cross-transmission.
Objectives: To assess hand hygiene compliance according to WHO guidelines, compare practices among doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals (AHPs), and identify barriers to adherence.
Methods: A prospective observational audit was conducted in the PICU at National Hospital Galle using the WHO Hand Hygiene Observation Form. Fifty hand hygiene opportunities were observed across staff categories.
Results: Overall compliance was 62%. Compliance was highest before aseptic procedures (100%) and after body fluid exposure (83.3%). Nurses showed the highest compliance (83.3%), followed by AHPs (75%) and doctors (58.8%). Noncompliance was common during busy periods.
Conclusion: Hand hygiene compliance remains suboptimal, highlighting the need for regular training, reinforcement, and repeat audits.