ABSTRACT

This study examined nurses' knowledge of infection control measures in the surgical wards of Faith Mediplex Hospital, Benin City, and the relationship between their knowledge and the prevention of hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) among postoperative patients. A convergent parallel mixed-methods research design was adopted, combining quantitative and qualitative approaches. Quantitative data were obtained through surveys involving 120 nurses, while qualitative information was collected through semi-structured interviews with 20 nurses. The study assessed nurses' knowledge of infection prevention, their compliance with established infection control protocols, and the relationship between these factors and the incidence of HAIs, particularly surgical site infections (SSIs) and catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs).

The Health Belief Model (HBM) provided the theoretical foundation for the study. The model explains how perceived susceptibility, perceived severity, perceived benefits, perceived barriers, cues to action, and self-efficacy influence nurses' decisions and behaviours regarding infection prevention. Preliminary findings revealed a moderate level of infection control knowledge among nurses, with a mean score of 3.4 out of 5 and a standard deviation of 0.8. However, gaps were identified in advanced sterilization techniques, with 65% proficiency, and hand hygiene compliance, which stood at 58%. The qualitative findings identified several challenges affecting adherence to infection prevention practices. These included inadequate training, with only 45% of nurses receiving annual training; insufficient availability of personal protective equipment (PPE), with only 40% of wards reported to be fully equipped; high patient-to-nurse ratios of 1:12; and workplace attitudes that sometimes place greater emphasis on speed of service delivery than compliance with established procedures.

Statistical analysis demonstrated a significant negative correlation between nurses' knowledge scores and HAI incidence rates (r = -0.48, p < 0.01). The regression analysis further suggested that a 10% increase in knowledge was associated with a 5% reduction in HAIs. Based on these findings, the study recommends compulsory WHO-accredited infection prevention training, improved allocation of healthcare resources, real-time monitoring of compliance, integration of patient education into infection prevention programmes, public-private partnerships to support funding, and workplace sensitization programmes aimed at improving attitudes towards infection control.

The study contributes to nursing practice by providing information specific to Faith Mediplex Hospital, supporting evidence-based healthcare policy development in Nigeria, and presenting strategies that may be adapted to other healthcare settings with limited resources. It also supports the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 3, which focuses on good health and well-being.

Keywords: Hospital-acquired infections, infection control, nurses' knowledge, surgical wards, Faith Mediplex Hospital, Health Belief Model, hand hygiene, patient safety, Nigeria, resource constraints.

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 BACKGROUND TO THE STUDY

Hospital-acquired infections (HAIs), also known as healthcare-associated infections, are infections that patients develop while receiving treatment or care in healthcare facilities. They represent a major public health concern worldwide, including in Nigeria. Such infections can worsen patients' health conditions, prolong hospital stays, increase the cost of treatment and, in severe cases, lead to death. According to the World Health Organization, approximately 7 to 10 out of every 100 hospitalized patients worldwide develop healthcare-associated infections. However, the proportion may increase to between 15 and 20 out of every 100 patients in resource-limited countries, including Nigeria, due to inadequate funding, limited medical equipment and weaknesses in infection prevention systems (WHO, 2022).

Surgical wards are particularly susceptible to HAIs because surgical procedures involve opening or cutting body tissues, creating opportunities for microorganisms to enter the body. Patients undergoing surgery may also have weakened immune systems, while the use of medical devices, such as urinary catheters, can further increase their risk of infection. Surgical site infections (SSIs), which affect the areas of the body where surgical procedures have been performed, account for approximately 20% to 25% of HAIs. Similarly, catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs), which are linked to the use of urinary catheters, account for approximately 10% to 15% of these infections (Allegranzi et al., 2021; Horan et al., 2020). These infections may extend hospital stays by about 5 to 10 days, increase the risk of mortality and place additional financial burdens on patients, their families and healthcare institutions (WHO, 2022).

In Nigeria, hospital-acquired infections continue to pose a serious challenge to healthcare delivery because of several weaknesses within the healthcare system. Many hospitals face financial constraints that limit their ability to obtain modern equipment for cleaning and sterilizing surgical instruments. Furthermore, the migration of nurses in search of better employment opportunities abroad has contributed to shortages in the healthcare workforce, thereby increasing the workload of available nursing personnel (Ogoina et al., 2020; Afolabi & Ojo, 2025). Previous studies suggest that approximately 55% of Nigerian nurses have a moderate level of knowledge of infection prevention. In addition, only about 40% reportedly comply consistently with recommended hand hygiene practices, while approximately 50% appropriately use personal protective equipment, such as gloves and face masks, in private healthcare facilities (Okafor & Musa, 2023; Adeyemi et al., 2024).

These limitations contribute to the persistent burden of HAIs in Nigeria, where infection rates may exceed the international benchmarks outlined in infection prevention guidelines (WHO, 2022). The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention identifies proper hand hygiene, appropriate use of protective equipment, effective sterilization of medical instruments and environmental cleaning as essential measures for preventing healthcare-associated infections. However, compliance with these practices remains inconsistent among healthcare workers in different parts of the world. In Nigeria, factors such as heavy patient workloads, inadequate supplies and insufficient training may further affect healthcare workers' adherence to recommended infection prevention procedures (CDC, 2023).

Faith Mediplex Hospital, situated in Benin City, Edo State, is a private healthcare institution with a reported capacity of 200 beds. The hospital provides different surgical services, including orthopaedic procedures, general surgery and neurosurgery. It reportedly attends to between 50 and 70 surgical patients monthly, representing approximately 600 to 840 surgical procedures annually (Faith Mediplex Hospital, 2024). Despite having facilities considered better than those found in some other Nigerian healthcare institutions, the hospital reportedly records an HAI incidence rate of 15%, comprising 10% surgical site infections and 5% catheter-associated urinary tract infections. These figures are considerably higher than the benchmark adopted for comparison in this study.

Several challenges relating to infection prevention have reportedly been identified at the hospital. These include inadequate hand hygiene compliance, with only 58% of nurses reportedly following recommended handwashing procedures; insufficient personal protective equipment, with only 40% of wards having adequate supplies of gloves and face masks; and outdated sterilization equipment in approximately 30% of surgical areas (Faith Mediplex Hospital, 2024). These conditions may contribute to increased infection rates, longer hospital admissions and additional healthcare expenditure. The hospital reportedly spends approximately ₦5 million annually on the management of HAIs (Faith Mediplex Hospital, 2024). For instance, a patient who develops a surgical site infection may require additional medication, prolonged hospitalization and further medical interventions, increasing the likelihood of additional complications.

Nurses occupy an important position in the prevention of hospital-acquired infections because they have frequent contact with patients and participate directly in several aspects of patient care. Their responsibilities include maintaining proper hand hygiene, using personal protective equipment appropriately, observing aseptic techniques during clinical procedures and ensuring the safe disposal of medical waste. The World Health Organization identifies five important moments for hand hygiene: before touching a patient, before performing a clean or aseptic procedure, after exposure to body fluids, after touching a patient and after contact with the patient's surroundings (WHO, 2022).

Despite the importance of these responsibilities, nurses at Faith Mediplex Hospital reportedly encounter several challenges that may affect their ability to comply fully with infection control guidelines. Each nurse is reportedly responsible for approximately 12 patients, a workload described in the study as being twice the recommended ratio. Such a workload may reduce the time available for carrying out essential infection prevention procedures (Nwosu & Eke, 2024). In addition, only about 45% of nurses reportedly receive annual training on infection prevention. Pressure to complete clinical duties quickly may also cause some healthcare workers to overlook important procedures, including hand hygiene (Ibrahim & Bello, 2025). Certain workplace attitudes may further contribute to the problem, particularly when healthcare workers regard infections as an unavoidable part of hospital care rather than as preventable conditions requiring individual responsibility (Nwosu & Eke, 2024).

Available assessments indicate that nurses at Faith Mediplex Hospital demonstrate an average level of knowledge regarding infection prevention, with reported performance of approximately 65% in infection control assessments. However, specific weaknesses have been identified in the operation of advanced sterilization equipment, with only 35% of nurses reportedly demonstrating the required level of proficiency. Similarly, compliance with environmental cleaning procedures has been estimated at approximately 50% (Okafor & Musa, 2023). These findings demonstrate the need to strengthen professional training, improve access to essential resources and encourage consistent adherence to infection prevention standards.

This study adopts the Health Belief Model (HBM), developed by Rosenstock in 1974, as its theoretical framework for understanding the factors that influence nurses' compliance with infection control measures (Rosenstock, 1974). The model explains health-related behaviours through six major constructs: perceived susceptibility, perceived severity, perceived benefits, perceived barriers, cues to action and self-efficacy. When applied to infection prevention, these constructs suggest that nurses are more likely to follow established safety procedures when they recognize the possibility of patients acquiring infections, understand the seriousness of the consequences and believe that infection control measures are effective. Their willingness to comply may also be influenced by barriers such as inadequate supplies, insufficient time and limited training. Professional reminders, educational programmes and confidence in their ability to perform the required procedures may further encourage compliance. At Faith Mediplex Hospital, inadequate training and insufficient supplies may reduce nurses' confidence and limit their ability to implement recommended infection prevention practices effectively (Ibrahim & Bello, 2025).

The reported incidence of HAIs at Faith Mediplex Hospital highlights the need for a more effective approach to infection prevention. Although the World Health Organization and relevant infection prevention authorities in Nigeria have established guidelines, the reported challenges suggest that their implementation within the hospital requires improvement (WHO, 2022). These challenges include inadequate knowledge among some nurses, insufficient handwashing facilities in approximately 60% of wards, the financial burden associated with obtaining gloves and face masks, and the continued use of outdated sterilization equipment. Such limitations may expose patients to preventable infections, prolong their recovery periods and increase healthcare expenditure (Adeyemi et al., 2024).

Another concern is the limited availability of research focusing specifically on infection prevention in private healthcare institutions in Nigeria. Much of the existing research examines public hospitals or addresses infection control generally, with comparatively less attention given to private facilities such as Faith Mediplex Hospital, which provides surgical services to patients in Edo State (Igiebor & Okungbowa, 2023). There is also a need for studies that examine measurable outcomes, such as infection rates and nurses' compliance levels, alongside the underlying reasons for inadequate adherence, including workload pressures, shortages of resources and workplace attitudes.

In view of these concerns, this study examines the level of infection control knowledge among nurses working in the surgical wards of Faith Mediplex Hospital, investigates the relationship between their knowledge and the occurrence of hospital-acquired infections, and identifies the factors that affect the implementation of infection prevention procedures. The findings are expected to provide evidence that can guide the development of practical strategies for reducing HAIs, improving patient safety and minimizing the financial burden associated with infection management. These efforts may also contribute to improved healthcare quality in Nigeria and the development of safer hospital environments.

Beyond the Nigerian healthcare system, the study may contribute to the wider body of research on infection prevention in low- and middle-income countries. Healthcare institutions in countries such as Kenya, India and Ghana experience similar challenges, including shortages of medical resources and the migration of nursing professionals (Mwangi & Otieno, 2024; Sharma & Gupta, 2022; Anarfi & Quartey, 2023). The findings may therefore provide useful insights for other healthcare facilities operating under comparable conditions.

For patients, improved infection prevention practices may result in shorter hospital stays, lower risks of complications and mortality, and reduced treatment expenses. These benefits are particularly important for patients from low-income households who may experience considerable financial difficulties when additional treatment becomes necessary. Academically, the study addresses gaps in hospital-specific infection control research by applying the Health Belief Model to nurses' infection prevention behaviours and adopting a mixed-methods approach to obtain both quantitative and qualitative evidence. By examining individual, cultural and institutional barriers to infection prevention, the study also supports improved healthcare delivery, patient safety and public confidence in private healthcare institutions such as Faith Mediplex Hospital.

1.2 STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

Despite the availability of infection prevention guidelines provided by the World Health Organization, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and relevant Nigerian infection control authorities, hospital-acquired infections remain a significant challenge at Faith Mediplex Hospital. The hospital reportedly records an HAI incidence rate of 15% in its surgical wards, which is higher than the global benchmark of less than 5% cited in the study (WHO, 2022).

Preliminary assessments indicate that nurses at the hospital possess a moderate level of infection control knowledge, with an average score of approximately 65% in standardized infection prevention assessments. However, significant deficiencies have been identified in advanced sterilization procedures, where proficiency is estimated at 35%; consistent use of personal protective equipment, reported at 40%; and environmental cleaning practices, with an adherence level of approximately 50% (Okafor & Musa, 2023). These knowledge and compliance gaps may weaken the effective implementation of infection prevention measures within the surgical wards.

Beyond knowledge-related limitations, several institutional and operational factors may contribute to inadequate infection control practices. These include limited opportunities for professional training, as only 45% of nurses reportedly receive annual infection prevention training; inadequate resources, with approximately 60% of wards lacking sufficient handwashing facilities; and high patient-to-nurse ratios of 1:12. Workplace attitudes that place greater emphasis on completing procedures quickly than on following established infection control protocols may also affect compliance (Adeyemi et al., 2024; Nwosu & Eke, 2024).

These challenges may contribute to the hospital's reported HAI incidence rate, particularly surgical site infections, estimated at 10%, and catheter-associated urinary tract infections, estimated at 5%. The consequences include delayed recovery, prolonged hospitalization, increased exposure to antimicrobial resistance and additional healthcare expenses. The hospital reportedly spends approximately ₦5 million annually on the treatment and management of HAIs (Faith Mediplex Hospital, 2024).

Another major problem is the limited availability of research specifically examining the relationship between nurses' infection control knowledge, their compliance with recommended procedures and the occurrence of HAIs at Faith Mediplex Hospital. Existing Nigerian studies have largely concentrated on public healthcare institutions or general infection prevention issues, leaving a gap in evidence relating to private hospitals such as Faith Mediplex, which serves a considerable number of surgical patients in Edo State (Igiebor & Okungbowa, 2023).

Furthermore, the relationship between nurses' knowledge, their actual compliance with infection prevention procedures and patient infection outcomes has not been adequately explored within this particular hospital setting. There is also a need to understand the practical and institutional factors that prevent nurses from applying their knowledge consistently. A mixed-methods approach is therefore important because it can provide statistical evidence of existing trends while also exploring the experiences and challenges reported by nurses.

This study seeks to address these gaps by assessing nurses' knowledge of infection control measures, examining the relationship between their knowledge and the occurrence of hospital-acquired infections, and identifying barriers to the effective implementation of infection prevention practices. The findings are expected to provide evidence for developing practical interventions that strengthen infection control, improve patient safety and enhance the quality of healthcare services at Faith Mediplex Hospital.

1.3 OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY

The general objective of this study is to examine nurses' knowledge of infection control measures and their relationship with the reduction of hospital-acquired infections in the surgical wards of Faith Mediplex Hospital, Benin City.

The specific objectives are to:

1. Assess the level of knowledge of infection control measures among nurses working in the surgical wards of Faith Mediplex Hospital, with particular attention to hand hygiene, personal protective equipment, sterilization procedures and environmental cleaning.
2. Examine, quantitatively and qualitatively, the relationship between nurses' knowledge of infection control measures and the reduction of hospital-acquired infections, particularly surgical site infections and catheter-associated urinary tract infections, among surgical patients.
3. Identify the factors and challenges that hinder the effective implementation of infection control measures among nurses in the surgical wards.
4. Determine the influence of nurses' knowledge and compliance with infection control measures on the reduction of hospital-acquired infections in the surgical wards of Faith Mediplex Hospital.

1.4 RESEARCH QUESTIONS

The following research questions were formulated to guide the study:

1. What is the level of knowledge of infection control measures among nurses working in the surgical wards of Faith Mediplex Hospital?
2. Is there a statistically significant relationship between nurses' knowledge of infection control measures and the reduction of hospital-acquired infections in the surgical wards?
3. What factors hinder the effective implementation of infection control measures among nurses in the surgical wards?
4. What effect does the reduction of hospital-acquired infections have on patients?

1.5 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

This study is important because it seeks to provide useful information on strategies for preventing hospital-acquired infections and improving the safety and quality of healthcare delivery. By examining nurses' knowledge and compliance with infection control procedures, the research is expected to benefit healthcare institutions, nursing professionals, patients, policymakers and future researchers. Its focus is particularly relevant to Faith Mediplex Hospital in Benin City, Edo State.

Significance to Faith Mediplex Hospital

The findings will provide the hospital's management with information about nurses' existing knowledge of infection prevention and the areas requiring improvement. The hospital reportedly spends approximately ₦5 million annually on the management of hospital-acquired infections, while its surgical wards record an HAI incidence rate of 15% (Faith Mediplex Hospital, 2024). These figures highlight the need to strengthen infection prevention practices and reduce the financial and operational consequences of avoidable infections.

The study may assist hospital management in identifying areas where additional investment and improvements are required. These may include organizing more comprehensive training programmes for nurses, ensuring the availability of essential supplies such as gloves and face masks, and upgrading outdated equipment used for sterilizing surgical instruments. The reported condition of sterilization equipment in approximately 30% of surgical areas further emphasizes the importance of improving the hospital's infection prevention resources (Faith Mediplex Hospital, 2024).

Implementing appropriate improvements may help reduce infection rates, prevent unnecessary patient admissions and readmissions, shorten hospital stays, and lower the financial burden associated with treating HAIs. Consequently, the findings may support better resource management, improved healthcare delivery and a safer environment for patients and healthcare workers.

Significance to Nurses

Nurses working at Faith Mediplex Hospital are among the major beneficiaries of this research because they are directly involved in implementing infection prevention procedures. Previous assessments suggest that nurses possess a moderate level of infection control knowledge, with reported performance of approximately 65%, while only 45% receive annual infection prevention training (Okafor & Musa, 2023; Ibrahim & Bello, 2025).

The study will help identify specific areas where nurses require additional knowledge and practical training, including the operation of sterilization equipment, appropriate hand hygiene, the use of personal protective equipment and compliance with environmental cleaning procedures. The findings may guide the development of targeted professional development programmes that improve nurses' competence and confidence in carrying out infection prevention responsibilities.

Improved knowledge and training may also strengthen nurses' adherence to established infection control standards. This is particularly important because previous reports have identified gaps in hand hygiene and the appropriate use of protective equipment among healthcare workers in private hospitals (Okafor & Musa, 2023; Adeyemi et al., 2024). The study may therefore support continuous professional development and encourage a stronger culture of accountability and patient safety within nursing practice.

Significance to Patients

Patients undergoing surgical procedures at Faith Mediplex Hospital are expected to benefit from improved infection prevention practices. The hospital reportedly records a 15% HAI incidence rate, comprising 10% surgical site infections and 5% catheter-associated urinary tract infections (Faith Mediplex Hospital, 2024). These infections can delay recovery, increase the duration of hospital admission and expose patients to additional health complications.

The study may help identify practical measures for reducing patients' exposure to preventable infections. Improved hand hygiene, appropriate sterilization, correct use of protective equipment and effective environmental cleaning can contribute to safer surgical care. Reducing the occurrence of HAIs may also decrease the need for additional medication and medical procedures, shorten hospital stays and reduce the financial pressure on patients and their families.

These benefits are particularly important for individuals and households with limited financial resources, who may find it difficult to manage the additional expenses associated with infection-related complications.

Significance to Healthcare Policymakers

The findings may also provide useful evidence for healthcare policymakers and regulatory institutions, including the Edo State Ministry of Health and the Federal Ministry of Health. By identifying the challenges affecting infection prevention at Faith Mediplex Hospital, the study may support the development and improvement of policies aimed at strengthening infection control practices in Nigerian healthcare facilities.

The research may draw attention to important institutional challenges, including inadequate handwashing facilities, shortages of protective equipment, insufficient staffing and limited opportunities for professional training. Previous reports indicate that approximately 60% of wards lack adequate handwashing facilities and that nurses may attend to as many as 12 patients each (Adeyemi et al., 2024; Nwosu & Eke, 2024).

Such findings may encourage policymakers and healthcare administrators to consider improved funding, better distribution of essential medical supplies, increased recruitment of nursing personnel and stronger monitoring of infection prevention standards. The study may also contribute to broader efforts to strengthen infection control programmes in private healthcare institutions and support Nigeria's commitment to improving public health.

Furthermore, the study is relevant to Sustainable Development Goal 3, which focuses on ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for people of all ages. Reducing preventable infections and improving the safety of surgical care are important steps towards achieving this goal (WHO, 2022).

Significance to Future Researchers and Academic Development

Academically, this research may contribute to existing literature on nurses' knowledge and compliance with infection control measures, particularly within private healthcare institutions in Nigeria. By applying the Health Belief Model, the study provides a theoretical perspective for understanding how nurses' beliefs, perceptions and confidence influence their infection prevention behaviours.

The use of a mixed-methods research design is also significant because it combines quantitative findings with qualitative experiences. This approach can provide a more comprehensive understanding of the factors affecting infection control practices than relying on numerical data alone. Future researchers may use the findings as a reference for related studies involving other hospitals, healthcare professionals and patient populations.

Overall Significance

In general, the study is expected to contribute to improved infection prevention and patient safety at Faith Mediplex Hospital. It seeks to identify areas where nurses require additional training, highlight institutional barriers to compliance and provide evidence that can guide improvements in healthcare resources and practices. By addressing these issues, the research may help reduce the reported HAI incidence rate, improve patient recovery and minimize the financial costs associated with infection management. It may also provide useful information for strengthening infection prevention policies and promoting safer healthcare services in Nigeria, particularly within private hospitals that provide essential surgical care (Igiebor & Okungbowa, 2023; WHO, 2022).

1.6 SCOPE OF THE STUDY

This study focuses on registered nurses working in the surgical wards of Faith Mediplex Hospital, Benin City, during the 2025–2026 period. The selected surgical units include orthopaedic, general surgery and neurosurgery wards. The research examines nurses' knowledge of infection control measures, particularly hand hygiene, the use of personal protective equipment, sterilization of surgical instruments and environmental cleaning.

The study also investigates the relationship between nurses' knowledge and compliance with infection prevention procedures and the reduction of hospital-acquired infections among surgical patients. The specific infections considered are surgical site infections and catheter-associated urinary tract infections.

The research excludes non-nursing healthcare personnel, nurses working in wards outside the selected surgical units, and other categories of hospital-acquired infections, such as ventilator-associated pneumonia and central line-associated bloodstream infections. This limitation is intended to maintain the focus of the investigation.

Data collection covers a six-month period and involves quantitative questionnaires and qualitative semi-structured interviews. The analysis is guided by the Health Belief Model, which provides a framework for understanding the factors influencing nurses' infection prevention behaviours. Geographically, the research is restricted to Faith Mediplex Hospital in Benin City, Edo State, to provide findings that reflect the experiences and conditions of the selected healthcare institution.

1.7 OPERATIONAL DEFINITION OF TERMS

Infection Control Measures: These refer to evidence-based procedures and practices designed to prevent the occurrence and spread of hospital-acquired infections. In this study, they include compliance with the World Health Organization's Five Moments for Hand Hygiene, appropriate use of personal protective equipment, sterilization of surgical instruments and environmental cleaning by nurses in surgical wards.

Hospital-Acquired Infections (HAIs): These are infections that patients develop in connection with receiving healthcare services and that were not present or incubating at the time of admission. In this study, the focus is on surgical site infections and catheter-associated urinary tract infections, assessed through hospital records and infection surveillance data.

Knowledge: This refers to the level of understanding nurses possess regarding infection prevention procedures and recommended infection control standards. In this study, nurses' knowledge is assessed using a validated 30-item Likert-scale questionnaire and information obtained through semi-structured interviews.

Surgical Wards: These are specialized hospital units where patients who have undergone or are preparing for surgical procedures receive treatment and postoperative care. In this study, the term refers specifically to the orthopaedic, general surgery and neurosurgery units at Faith Mediplex Hospital.

Health Belief Model (HBM): This is a theoretical framework used to explain how individuals' health-related beliefs and perceptions influence their behaviours. In this study, it explains nurses' infection prevention practices through perceived susceptibility, perceived severity, perceived benefits, perceived barriers, cues to action and self-efficacy (Rosenstock, 1974).

Compliance: This refers to the extent to which nurses follow established infection prevention procedures and guidelines when providing patient care. In this study, compliance is assessed through nurses' self-reported practices and observational audits.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): These are protective materials and devices, including gloves, face masks and other appropriate protective clothing, used by healthcare workers to reduce exposure to infectious agents.

Surgical Site Infections (SSIs): These are infections that develop at or around the area of the body where a surgical procedure has been performed.

Catheter-Associated Urinary Tract Infections (CAUTIs): These are urinary tract infections associated with the use of an indwelling urinary catheter.

Postoperative Patients: These are individuals who have undergone surgical procedures and are receiving medical care and monitoring during their recovery period.

Sterilization: This refers to the process of eliminating all forms of microbial life, including bacterial spores, from surgical instruments and other reusable medical equipment.

Environmental Cleaning: This refers to the cleaning and disinfection of hospital surfaces, equipment and patient-care environments to reduce the presence and spread of infectious microorganisms.

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