Compliance with Infection Prevention and Control Practice among Prospective Graduates of Nursing School in South Korea

The purpose of this study was to examine compliance with infection prevention and control practice and factors affecting compliance in nursing students who are about to graduate. A cross-sectional survey design was used. A total of 178 students from two nursing colleges in South Korea responded to self-reported questionnaires. Descriptive statistics, independent t-test, Pearson correlation, and multiple regression analysis were conducted. Mean score for compliance was 4.09 ± 0.43 out of 5. The highest score was on compliance with prevention of cross-infection (4.42 ± 0.54) and the lowest was on use of protective devices (3.86 ± 0.78). Non–occupational exposure scores on compliance subcategories were significantly higher than those for occupational exposure. Students’ perception of safe environment for infection control and a positive attitude toward infection control predicted compliance significantly (β = 0.28, p < 0.001; β = 0.18, p = 0.014, respectively). The findings clarify that the level of infection control compliance among Korean nursing students is moderate. In order to increase the level of compliance, a climate that emphasizes a safe environment for healthcare-associated infections should be strengthened. In addition, nursing education should endeavor to develop a positive attitude toward infection prevention.