Scholarly record
AWARENESS OF HEALTHCARE FACILITY OCCUPANTS AND THE MICROBIOLOGICAL AIR QUALITY
Abstract
In healthcare facilities, the microbiological quality of air is crucial for health safety, as it determines the type and amount of microorganisms present indoors. Poor air quality is linked to healthcare-associated infections (HAIs), affecting both patients and staff. Contributing factors include inadequate infection monitoring, gaps in sanitary protocols, and insufficient preventive measures. HAIs are a major challenge for modern healthcare, affecting 5-15% of hospitalized patients. Indoor air quality significantly impacts infection risk, making its control essential for patient and staff safety. Awareness among medical facility users is also crucial for maintaining a safe environment and managing hazards. This study aimed to assess the knowledge and awareness of medical facility users regarding microbiological air contamination, perceptions of indoor environmental safety, and practices used to reduce exposure. Data were collected via a custom-designed questionnaire. Percentage distributions of responses were calculated, and relationships between qualitative variables were analysed statistically. Results were also compared with findings from similar studies conducted in various regions of the world. Preliminary results indicated a high awareness of the importance of air quality in healthcare facilities, including knowledge of contamination sources and associated health risks. There was strong support for prioritizing air quality improvement in health policy. The findings provide valuable guidance for limiting hospital-acquired infections and improving indoor air quality, highlighting practices that can reduce exposure to airborne contaminants.
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