Factors associated with better alcohol hand rub in 2020. Results from the French national audit "Pulpe'friction"

The application of alcohol-based hand rub on hands (ABHR) can prevent the transmission of microorganisms. But, in some situations the practices remain perfectible.

The aim of this study was to assess the self-reported ABHR practices of healthcare workers (HCWs) and to identify the factors associated with better ABHR compliance.

A cross-sectional study was conducted using the French national "Pulpe'friction" audit, from 1st January 2020 to 31st December 2020, in healthcare facilities and social welfare facilities in France. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and multivariate logistic regression models.

Of the 6769 HCWs, the average ABHR compliance was 75% "before patient contact," 95% "before an invasive technique," 86% "after patient contact," and 79% "after contact with patient surroundings." The main reported barriers were the availability, the discomfort and the harmfulness of the product. The factors significantly associated with a better compliance were the individual importance given to hand hygiene (HH); working in a healthcare facility, except in the situation "before an invasive technique"; medical profession "after patient contact"; paramedical profession "after contact with patient surroundings."

These results call for national actions to fight the most reported barriers and raise awareness on the importance of HH, especially before touching the patient.