Assessment of airborne infection control practices at health care facilities of Tumkur District, Karnataka: A descriptive study.

INTRODUCTION: Tuberculosis (TB) is a major health hazard in India and is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Airborne transmission of infectious disease is a major public health concern. Adherence to the airborne infection control (AIC) is crucial to prevent spread of TB among patients who visit health care facilities and among the health care staff.

OBJECTIVES: To assess the airborne infection control practices at health care facilities of Tumkur.

METHOD: ology: This descriptive study was conducted in 85 public health institutes in 5 TB units of Tumkur. Data was collected using pre-tested; semi-structured questionnaire through personal interview, verification of records and inspection using WHO check-list.

RESULTS: The present study showed infection control committee and infection control plan were present in 97.65% and 90.59%, clinical staff underwent periodic TBIC training in 91.76% of PHIs. Waiting area and sputum sample collection area were well-ventilated in 97.65% & 97.65% of PHIs. Health workers practiced hand hygiene in 90.59%, PPEs were available in 85.06% PHIs.

CONCLUSION: The study concludes that, airborne infection control measures which includes administrative, environmental, and use of personal protective equipment were satisfactory among the PHIs but still there is scope for improvement.