A descriptive qualitative empirical study describing how basic hand hygiene is conducted in Lesotho as well as the healthcare staffs’ thoughts on it

Abstract: Background: Hand hygiene is now, more than ever, one of the most important factors to minimize spread of infection. In low income countries like Lesotho between 6% - 19% of patients contract at least one healthcare associated infection. Compared to between 3% - 10% in high income countries. Objective: The aim was to describe how healthcare professionals experience and conduct basic hand hygiene procedures at a hospital in Lesotho. Method: The study was conducted using a qualitative content analysis with a manifest level of abstraction and an inductive approach. Result: The results showed in our final categories; Healthcare professionals perceive different views on the risk for contamination, Healthcare professionals described hand hygiene as important although there are hindrances, and Healthcare professionals stated that basic hand hygiene need support from management for good compliance. That healthcare professionals did not always perform basic hand hygiene the way it was supposed as low budget or lack of knowledge was an obstacle. Conclusions: There are many problem areas, such as cost, availability and knowledge although the personnel are interested, resourceful and willing to make the best of any situation they come across.