Infection Control and Hygienic Measures Practiced Among Audiologists in India

Area of Science:

• Infection Control
• Audiology
• Public Health

Background:

• Audiologists serve diverse patient populations, increasing exposure risk to infectious agents through bodily fluids.
• Preventing nosocomial pathogen transmission is vital for patient and staff safety in audiology clinics.
• Current infection control strategies and hygiene practices among Indian audiologists require thorough assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the current infection control strategies and hygiene measures employed by audiologists in India.
• To identify gaps in knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding infection control in audiology settings.

Main Methods:

• An internet-based questionnaire survey was conducted among 172 audiologists in India.
• The survey assessed demography, knowledge, attitude, and practices related to infection control and hygiene.

Main Results:

• While most audiologists had a positive attitude towards infection control, personal protective equipment (gloves, masks) usage was minimal.
• Hand hygiene was practiced inconsistently, and only 30% of audiologists sterilized critical instruments.
• Knowledge and practice of infection control measures were found to be inadequate.

Conclusions:

• Significant deficiencies exist in audiologists' knowledge and practice of infection control in India.
• Specialized training programs are recommended for both new and practicing audiologists to improve patient safety and ensure an infection-free clinical environment.