Perception of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Use and Its Barriers in Clinical Settings

Authors

  • Anjali Sharma
  • Aqsa Hussain
  • Gunjan
  • Asmita Gupta
  • Deepanshu Bhati
  • Ishita Kumari
  • Manas Bhadoriya
  • Jai Bhati
  • Hemant Kumar Garg
  • Col. Brij Mohan

Keywords:

Personal protective equipment (PPE), PPE kit use, barriers for PPE use, clinical settings

Abstract

Background: Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is essential for infection control and occupational safety in clinical environments. Despite its proven efficacy, compliance remains suboptimal due to various perceptual and systemic barriers.

Objective: To assess the perception of PPE use and identify barriers among healthcare trainees and professionals in clinical settings.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 250 participants: 100 MBBS students/interns, 50 nursing students, and 100 nurses/technicians. A 15-item Likert-scale questionnaire was developed to evaluate perceptions and barriers. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, ANOVA, and thematic analysis for open-ended responses.

Results: While 82% of participants acknowledged the importance of PPE, only 61% reported consistent usage. Major barriers included discomfort (68%), lack of availability (54%), and time constraints (47%). Statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) were observed between student and professional groups in perceived risk and compliance behavior.

Conclusion: Although awareness of PPE is high, practical barriers hinder optimal usage. Targeted training, ergonomic improvements, and institutional support are essential to enhance compliance and reduce occupational risk.

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References

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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. PPE 103: Principles and Engagement Models. CDC Training Module

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Published

2025-09-10

How to Cite

1.
Sharma A, Hussain A, Gunjan G, Gupta A, Bhati D, Kumari I, Bhadoriya M, Bhati J, Garg HK, Mohan CB. Perception of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Use and Its Barriers in Clinical Settings. J Neonatal Surg [Internet]. 2025Sep.10 [cited 2025Sep.19];14(32S):8322-6. Available from: https://www.jneonatalsurg.com/index.php/jns/article/view/9114

Issue

Vol. 14 No. 32S (2025): Journal of Neonatal Surgery

Section

Original Article

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