Muller Journal of Medical Sciences and Research (Dec 2024)
Assessing the roles of personal protective equipment usage among clinical staff in three selected district hospitals in the Ashanti Region
Abstract
Background: The issue of emerging diseases of public health concern in developing countries is gaining significant attention due to the increasing speed and their effects on finances and human resource of which health-care workers are no exception. To ensure the containment of these emerging diseases, a study was conducted to assess the roles of personal protective equipment (PPE) usage among clinical staff in three selected district hospitals in the Ashanti Region, namely Juaben Government Hospital, Onwe Government Hospital, and Effiduase Government Hospital. Methodology: The study employed cross-sectional study where 246 respondents were sampled based on purposive (due to the participants being recruited) and simple random sampling (to eliminate all possible biases) and were made to respond to a structured questionnaire. Data collected were presented as frequencies, percentages, tables, and graphs and analyzed using the Statistical Package of the Social Sciences (SPSS). A Chi-square test was used to ascertain the association among the variables, and P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Majority of the respondents were females (65.0%). Age range 20–29 years (52.9%), diploma holders (56.9%), nurses (48.9%), and 1-year working experience (30.1%) were the majority indicators among the respondents. The study showed that surgical masks, gloves, and protective gowns were the most PPE used by clinical staff and also disclosed that PPE usage could be an ideal solution in containing emerging diseases (80.9%). Additionally, the results indicated that PPE usage helps in reducing cross-infection. Conclusion: The study concluded that PPE were helpful, and despite their difficulties they may impose when worn, they should be worn at all times. PPE usage and frequent training on their usage in health-care settings are very key if emerging diseases of public health concern are to be contained.
Keywords
