Nurses' perceptions of infection prevention and control practices in Ishaka-Bushenyi municipality, Uganda: A mixed-methods study

Infection prevention and control (IPC) practices are essential for reducing healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) and promoting patient safety. Nurses play a key role in IPC implementation, and their perceptions may influence adherence to recommended practices. In Uganda, IPC practices are affected by limited resources, staffing shortages, infrastructure constraints, and inconsistent monitoring, highlighting the need to understand nurses’ perceptions within local healthcare settings. The study assessed nurses’ perceptions towards IPC practices and explored contextual factors affecting IPC implementation in healthcare facilities in Ishaka–Bushenyi Municipality. A quantitative-dominant embedded mixed-methods cross-sectional study was conducted among 133 nurses. Data were collected using a structured self-administered questionnaire. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics, independent-samples t-tests, ANOVA, Pearson correlation, and multiple linear regression. Open-ended responses were analysed thematically. Nurses had favourable perceptions towards IPC, but workplace conditions may hinder effective implementation. Strengthening IPC requires continuous training, reliable resources, and supportive healthcare systems.