Introduction: Standard precautions (SP) are essential for preventing infections in healthcare settings. However, their implementation remains insufficient in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). This study assessed the level of compliance with universal precautionary measures in healthcare facilities.
Materials and Methods: An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted among 120 healthcare professionals from July 22 to August 22, 2024, in twelve healthcare institutions in the city of Kisangani. Observation of healthcare providers for 15 to 30 minutes to record opportunities related to the five WHO indications for hand hygiene, as well as the practice of hand hygiene (handwashing with soap and water, or use of alcohol-based hand rub), allowed the calculation of hand hygiene compliance rates. Factors associated with compliance were analyzed using odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals.
Results: The mean age of participants was 43.6 ± 11.07 years, with a female predominance (53%). Better knowledge of SP was associated with the regular wearing of professional attire (p<0.05). Handwashing and alcohol-based hand rub practices varied significantly according to WHO indications, with higher compliance before aseptic procedures and after contact with the patient’s environment.
Conclusion: Hand hygiene compliance was low and varied depending on the technique used and WHO indications. Good knowledge of SP measures was associated with the wearing of professional attire. Institutional policies aimed at capacity building, awareness-raising, and ensuring the availability of essential supplies are necessary.