ASSESSMENT OF NOSOCOMIAL INFECTIONS IN PUBLIC HEALTH INSTITUTIONS IN NIGER STATE

Hospital–acquired infections (HAIs), also known as nosocomial infections continue to pose significant barrier to public health delivery, particularly in low and middle income countries. This study considered the prevalence, spatial-temporal distribution, and drivers of nosocomial infections in selected public health facilities in Niger state, Nigeria. It examined specifically the most frequent forms of nosocomial infections, their impact on patients and health care systems, healthcare personnel’s attitudes and practices and environmental factors that contribute to their persistence. The study used a cross-sectional design that included Federal Medical Centre Bida, General Hospital Mina and General Hospital Kontagora. A multi staged sampling process was utilized to select 260 healthcare professionals as identified by Krejcie and Morgan(1970) Sample size determination technique, Quantitative and qualitative data were gathered using structured surveys, in-depth interviews and observations. The most common HAIs were surgical site infections, urinary tract infections, blood streams infections and hospital acquired pneumonia. Poor sanitation, irregular water supply, overcrowding inadequate waste disposal and mosquito breeding places all contributed to increased patient susceptibility. This found that while most health care professionals had a basic understanding of infection control, compliance with hand hygiene and sterilization practices was variable due to systemic restrictions. It concludes that nosocomial infections in Niger State are caused by systemic infrastructure flaws, inadequate IPC compliance, and environmental exposure. To ensure compliance and improve patient safety, the study recommends reinforcing hospital infrastructure, increasing water and sanitation, fumigating regularly, having an appropriate supply of PPE and disinfectants providing continual staff training, and establishing effective IPC committees.