Knowledge among nursing students of blood borne viruses and practices to prevent transmission

Objectives: The main objectives of this study were to determine the knowledge about blood borne viruses and practices to prevent its transmission among nursing students of a teaching hos-pital in North East India.

Methodology: A cross sectional study was conducted in a nursing college in North East India among the nursing students involved in clinical practice. The study duration was of two months. Sample size of 200 for the study was arrived at by applying the formula 4pq/l2+(4pq/N) where(4pq/N) is the finite population correction factor where N is equal to 357 which is the total estimated population and l is the allowable error which is taken as 10%. Statistical analysis was carried out by using software SPSS version 20 and frequency, proportions and percentages were calculated. A pre-tested questionnaire regarding the knowledge, and practices related to blood borne infections was used.

Results: Majority of the students (62.5%) had knowledge about the three most serious blood borne infections though only 25% were aware that HIV is transmitted by infected blood, unpro-tected sexual intercourse, tattooing and piercing instruments, mother to child during pregnancy and during labour. This study also showed that the majority of the students (89%) knew that be-ing a healthcare worker puts them at risk of acquiring Hepatitis B, C and HIV.

Conclusions: The present study concludes that the nursing students of Sikkim Manipal Institute of Medical Sciences have a fair knowledge of the cause of blood borne infections. Awareness and practices regarding use of personal protective equipment was also good. However, the nurs-ing education programme should prepare nurses for providing effective and efficient nursing care for patients and use adequate protective measures to minimize risk of occupational hazards to themselves.