Compliance with Tuberculosis Infection prevention and control and its associated factors among Health workers of greater Jinja, Uganda.

Abstract

Introduction: Tuberculosis (TB) remains a significant public health challenge, particularly in resource-limited settings. Effective TB Infection Prevention and Control (TB-IPC) measures are crucial for reducing transmission within healthcare facilities. This study examined compliance with tuberculosis infection prevention and control and its associated factors among health workers in greater Jinja Uganda.Methodology: A mixed-methods approach was used. Quantitative data were collected in a health facility survey using a structured questionnaire and an observational check list administered to health workers. Qualitative data were gathered through key informant interviews. Univariate and multivariate analysis was done using modified Poisson regression using Stata. Thematic analysis was conducted for qualitative data.Results: Overall, 438 participated in this study. More than half (58.5%) of the participants were females, with mean age of 34.5 years and SD of 9.4 years. Observed TBIPC compliance among HCWs was 84.5%. The prevalence of compliance was higher if the HCWS were Muslims (APR = 1.15, 95% CI: 1.05-1.38), had work experience of 5 or more years (APR = 1.08, 95% CI: 1.01-1.17), TBIPC materials were available (APR = 1.12, 95% CI: 1.04-1.39), TBIPC monitoring and supervision was conducted (APR = 2.09, 95% CI: 1.40-3.13), and HCWs were aware of TBIPC guidelines (APR = 1.81, 95% CI: 1.33-2.46). The qualitative data provided divergent themes such as funding and resource shortages, infrastructural, cultural and belief as barriers, and governance and leadership, supportive and innovative environment, and adequate skilled HCWs as facilitators of TBIPC compliance in the Greater Jinja.Conclusion: Effective TB-IPC compliance requires addressing both systemic and individual-level factors. Key recommendations include improving resource availability, enhancing training and supervision, as well as addressing cultural and behavioural barriers.