A study to assess the Awareness regarding proper cleaning and disinfection of medical equipment and instruments among Health care students

Background: Medical equipment and instruments are used during surgeries in the operation theatres. There are several types of medical equipment and instruments. After performing the surgeries they become contaminated because of blood, body fluids, contaminated or infected organs, microorganisms etc. If we use instruments and equipment on other patients without cleaning them it will become a major risk of spread of infections. So the cleaning and disinfection process is very important to prevent infections. Cleaning is the process of removing blood, dirt, body fluids and other things which can become the cause of infections from equipment and instruments. Disinfection is the process of removing and eliminating the microorganisms from equipment and instruments. There are many types of disinfectants present like phenol, savlon, Dettol, Alcohol, Betadine, etc. Healthcare students are always in contact with instruments and equipment so they need to have proper knowledge about handling, maintaining, cleaning and disinfecting instruments and equipment. Lack of knowledge can lead to risk of infections etc. Material and methods: The research approach was used to inform the healthcare students regarding proper disinfection and cleaning of medical equipment and instruments. Data was collected by using questions related to sterilization, disinfection,cleaning and infection control practices. Collected data was analyzed by using percentage methods and frequency. Result: The research shows the level of awareness of proper cleaning and disinfection of medical equipment and instruments among healthcare students. The results help the students identify the knowledge about sterilization procedures, types of disinfectants, infection control practices and cleaning methods. Conclusion: The conclusion of the study is awareness regarding proper disinfection and cleaning of medical instruments and equipment is very crucial among healthcare students. Proper practical training and knowledge can help prevent infections like hospital acquired infections and ensure the patient's safety.