Effect of Hand Hygiene Education Implemented through the Role-Play Method on Knowledge and Behavior of Primary School Students

Abstract

Background: In order to decrease the cost of treating infectious diseases and kid’s absenteeism in school, the most core knowledge and skill that should be taught to students in avoiding infectious diseases in the school environmentis the accurate hand hygiene. Personal hygiene practices learned at an early age are easier to become permanent behavior. Hygiene training given in primary school age is very important in this business. Teaching kids’ hand hygiene is efficient for a healthy society. Health education is one of the important roles of nurses. Objectives: This study aims to evaluate the effects of hand hygiene education applied through Role-Play Method on hand washing knowledge and skills of primary school students. Methods: The study was conducted between May 2019-June 2019 on 194 3rd and 4th graders in a primary school in Karaman. The data were collected through socio-demographic attributes form and correct hand washing rating form. The obtained data were evaluated with descriptive statistics and McNemar tests. Results: Students reported that they wash their hands when they are dirtiest (94.3%). Comparing the students’ knowledge and skill of hand hygiene before and after the education, a statistically significant difference was determined after the hand washing education (p<.001). Conclusion: A positive increase was determined in the knowledge and skills of kids after hand hygiene education using Role-Play Method. Role-Play method made learning fun for kids as a promotive education method.

Keywords

• child health
• hand hygiene
• health education
• role-play