Level of Awareness of the Standard Role of Infection Control Among Public Health Nurses in Cagayan De Oro City, Philippines

Abstract

Background: Public health nurses (PHNs) play a pivotal role in infection control within community settings. Despite national infection control guidelines, Rural Health Units (RHUs) in the Philippines lack formal infection control committees and training programs, creating a gap in practice. Understanding PHNs' awareness of their standard roles in infection control is critical to enhancing community health practices. 

Objective: This study aimed to assess the level of awareness among public health nurses in Cagayan de Oro City regarding their standard roles in infection control, and to examine the correlation between their demographic profiles and level of awareness.

Methods: A quantitative correlational research design was used. A structured questionnaire assessed the awareness of 36 PHNs regarding 34 infection control roles. The demographic profiles of respondents, including age, gender, position, length of service, and educational attainment, were also collected. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, weighted mean, and Pearson correlation to identify relationships between demographic factors and awareness levels.

Results: Findings revealed that PHNs were generally aware of their standard roles in infection control, with high awareness in areas such as following policies on disinfection and using aseptic techniques. However, involvement in research and advanced infection control practices was lower. Position was the only demographic factor significantly correlated with awareness, while age, gender, length of service, and educational attainment showed no significant relationships.

Conclusion: The study highlights the importance of leadership roles in promoting infection control awareness and emphasizes the need for targeted training in RHUs to address existing knowledge gaps. Further research is recommended to explore the impact of organizational support on infection control practices.

Keywords: Public health nurses, infection control, awareness, Rural Health Units, correlation analysis.