Knowledge and awareness of infection control practices among nursing professionals: A cross-sectional survey

Background: Infection prevention and control (IPC) is critical for patient safety, yet a gap often exists between nurses’ knowledge and clinical practice. This study aimed to assess infection control knowledge and self‑reported compliance among nurses and to examine associated factors. Methods: A cross‑sectional study was conducted among 188 nurses at Al Habib Hospital, Saudi Arabia. Data were collected using a validated questionnaire covering sociodemographics, knowledge (20 items, score 0–20), and self‑reported compliance (20 items, 0–4 Likert scale, total 0–80). Descriptive statistics, Mann‑Whitney U, Kruskal‑Wallis H, and Spearman’s correlation were used. Results: The majority were female (92.0%), held a bachelor’s degree (93.1%), and worked in an adult ICU (64.4%). Mean knowledge score was 14.93±1.75 (74.7%), and mean compliance score was 76.61±6.19 (95.8%). No significant correlation was found between knowledge and compliance (r=0.049, p=0.504). Significant differences in compliance were observed by education level (Bachelor's median 79 vs. Master’s 74, p=0.004) and working unit (emergency lowest median 71, p=0.014). Professional rank was significantly associated with knowledge (registered nurses median 15 vs. senior/head nurses 14, p=0.009). Participation in IPC training was not associated with either outcome. Conclusion: Nurses demonstrated moderate knowledge but very high self‑reported compliance, with no correlation between the two. Education level and working unit significantly influenced compliance, while training participation did not. Interventions should address unit‑specific barriers and move beyond passive education to improve IPC adherence.