EVALUATION OF KNOWLEDGE AND PERCEPTIONS ABOUT HAND HYGIENE AMONG PATIENTS AND COMPANIONS IN A MEDIUM-SIZED HOSPITAL

Hand hygiene is essential in preventing healthcare-associated infections (HAIs). Patient and family involvement is an important strategy to improve hand hygiene adherence within the hospital environment and ensure patient safety. This study aimed to evaluate the level of knowledge and perceptions regarding hand hygiene among patients and companions in a medium-sized hospital. This is a cross-sectional study conducted through questionnaires with yes/no and multiple-choice questions. Patients and companions from a medium-sized hospital were included between March and April 2025. Statistical analysis of yes/no responses was performed using binary multiple logistic regression, and multiple-choice responses were analyzed using multinomial multiple logistic regression, G-test for contingency tables, and residual analysis. A total of 90 participants were included, of whom 30 (34%) were patients and 58 (65.9%) companions. The median age was 46 years (IQR 33–58), with a predominance of females (n = 56, 62.9%). Seventy-six (84.4%) individuals had previously been hospitalized, and 28 (31.1%) had a history of HAIs. All participants reported considering hand hygiene important in healthcare, and 88 (97.7%) considered hygiene before glove placement important. Approximately 87% reported observing whether healthcare professionals perform hand hygiene, but only 28 (31.4%) felt confident asking the professional to perform hand hygiene if it had not been done. Most participants (n = 50, 56.1%) reported not feeling comfortable asking the healthcare professional to perform hand hygiene. In multivariate analysis, age was the main variable associated with not feeling comfortable asking professionals to perform hand hygiene (OR 1.05, 95% CI 1.01–1.08, p = 0.0014). Although most patients and companions recognize the importance of hand hygiene in preventing HAIs, many still feel uncomfortable requesting healthcare professionals to perform the procedure when necessary. These findings reinforce the need for educational and institutional strategies that encourage patient empowerment and promote a more participatory safety culture in the hospital environment.