Knowledge, Attitudes, Practices, and Barriers to Hand Hygiene among Medical Laboratory Science Students in the Post-COVID-19 Era: A Cross-sectional Survey

Abstract

Background: Hand hygiene is a fundamental measure for preventing infectious disease transmission. Although COVID-19 heightened global hygiene awareness, concerns remain that these practices have declined in the post-pandemic period. Aim: This study assessed knowledge, attitudes, practices, and barriers to hand hygiene among healthcare students. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted among 246 students in Years 2–5 at Niger Delta University using a structured, self-administered online questionnaire. Of 270 eligible students invited, 246 participated, giving a 91.1% response rate. Data were summarised using frequencies and percentages, while associations were assessed using chi-square and Fisher’s exact tests at p < 0.05. Results: Most respondents demonstrated good knowledge and positive attitudes towards hand hygiene. However, only a moderate level of good practice was observed, and 50.8% of students reported a decline in hand hygiene practices compared to the COVID-19 period. There was no statistically significant association between knowledge and practice (p > 0.9999), attitude and practice (p = 0.251), or level of study and practice (p = 0.1759). The most commonly reported barrier was forgetfulness (74.4%), followed by busy academic schedules and limited access to hygiene facilities. Conclusion: Despite high knowledge and positive attitudes, hand hygiene practices have declined among students in the post-COVID-19 era. Behavioural factors rather than knowledge appear to drive compliance. Targeted interventions focusing on habit formation and environmental support are needed to sustain hand hygiene practices.