KUMJ | VOL. 24 | NO. 2 | ISSUE 95 | APRIL - JUNE, 2026

Effectiveness of Structured Infection Prevention and Control Training on Improving Knowledge, Perception, and Confidence in Performance of Undergraduate Nursing Students in a University Hospital: A Quasi-experimental Study
Shrestha S, Cho Y, Bhuju C, Pun KD, Shrestha I, Shrestha J, Cha K, Shrestha PW, Chung M, Shrestha R, Ko J

Abstract:
Background Healthcare-associated infections remain a significant global patient-safety concern. Effective implementation of infection prevention and control (IPC) measures can prevent these infections. Nurses play a key role in implementing infection prevention and control measures because of their continuous patient contact and involvement in clinical procedures. Objective To assess the effectiveness of a structured infection prevention and control training program on improving knowledge, perception, and confidence among nursing students in a university hospital. Method A quasi-experimental pre-test and post-test study was conducted at the Kathmandu University School of Medical Sciences, Nepal, from August 2025 to January 2026 among nursing students. Baseline score on participants’ knowledge, perceptions, and self-reported confidence were compared with post scores following infection prevention and control trainings immediately and after three weeks. Result A total of 143 nursing students participated in the study. The baseline scores for knowledge, perception, and self-reported confidence improved from 26.64, 194.62, and 191.03, respectively to 29.38, 203.20 and 199.57 immediately to 29.38 ± 3.04, 203.20 ± 13.11 and 199.57 ± 8.97 respectively after three weeks, following the infection prevention and control training. Perception score demonstrated a significant improvement immediately after the training but did not show a further significant increase at the three-week follow-up. Conclusion The structured infection prevention and control training was effective in improving nursing students’ knowledge and self-confidence regarding infection prevention and control practices, indicating a positive retention of learning. It can play an important role in strengthening students’ preparedness for safe clinical practice, though additional strategies may be needed to sustain long-term changes in perception.
Keyword : Confidence, Infection prevention and control, Knowledge, Nursing Students, Perception