Evaluation of Infection Prevention and Control Practices among Healthcare Workers in Teaching Hospitals in Ibb City, Yemen

Abstract

Introduction: Globally, nosocomial infections affect over 100 million patients each year. This study aimed to assess the perceptions, practices, and perceived barriers related to infection prevention and control (IPC) among healthcare workers (HCWs) in teaching hospitals in Ibb City, Yemen. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among HCWs at teaching hospitals in Ibb Governorate, Yemen, from September 2024 to March 2025. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire. The selected hospitals followed infection control guidelines overseen by infection control committees. Results: Among the participants, 77% had attended seminars, and 71.3% had participated in IPC training courses. Although 67% were vaccinated against hepatitis B virus (HBV), only 65.7% had completed all three doses, and just 4.3% had received the COVID-19 vaccine. Overall, 74.6% demonstrated moderate perception of IPC, while 65.1% showed good IPC practices. A significant difference in IPC practices was observed between Al-Thawrah Teaching Hospital (77.6% good practice) and Jiblah University Hospital (52%) (p = 0.001). Significant differences were also found in perceived barriers between the two hospitals (p = 0.001). Furthermore, practice level was significantly associated with both knowledge (p = 0.001) and perceived barriers (p = 0.001). Conclusion: Despite good IPC knowledge among HCWs, gaps remain in their practical implementation. The strong associations between knowledge, practice, and barriers underscore the need for targeted training programs and sustained institutional support to strengthen IPC compliance in teaching hospitals.