Barriers and facilitators to infection prevention and control practices among healthcare professionals at Arba Minch general hospital, South Ethiopia: A phenomenological qualitative study

Hospital-acquired infections pose a significant global safety concern for patients and healthcare professionals. In Ethiopia, the issue is exacerbated by overcrowding, understaffing, and lack of trained professionals. This study investigated barriers and facilitators to infection prevention and control identified by healthcare workers at Arba Minch General Hospital, South Ethiopia, using the Systems Engineering Initiative for Patient Safety framework. A phenomenological qualitative study was conducted at the 260-bed hospital. Semi-structured interviews were held from July 19 to August 23, 2019, involving eight healthcare professionals (three physicians, one environmental health professional, two midwives, and two nurses) from various clinical departments, selected through purposive sampling. Data were transcribed, translated, and analyzed using Open Code software (version 3.6), with themes coded based on the conceptual framework. Key barriers included poor facility design, overcrowding, inadequate handwashing facilities, limited budget, lack of knowledge and training, insufficient and poor-quality personal protective equipment, inadequate waste management, high workload, and poor sterilization practices. Facilitators highlighted were the formation of an infection prevention and control committee, dedicated staff, and leadership roles for nurses and physicians in ongoing infection prevention and control initiatives. Tailored logistical and administrative actions addressing local conditions are essential. The study underscores the need for comprehensive training programs and infection prevention and control care packages to improve infection prevention and control practices in Ethiopian hospitals. Keywords: Ethiopia; Facilitators; Healthcare professionals; Infection barriers; Prevention and control