Hand hygiene is the leading measure to reduce the incidence of health care associated infections (HAIs). Although the techniques involved are simple, compliance is poor worldwide. This study was undertaken to determine the level of knowledge on hand hygiene among medical students so that appropriate measures can be taken to promote compliance. This study was conducted in Bangalore Medical College and Research Institute from June to July 2018 among medical students using WHO hand hygiene questionnaire. 78% students had received training in hand hygiene; everyone agreed it is necessary to be trained in hand hygiene practices. 85% routinely used hand rub in patient care. 33% answered correctly that 20s contact time; 44% answered 3 ml as minimal amount of alcohol-based hand rub essential to destroy the microorganisms. 63% and 46% of students respectively had misconception that alcohol based hand rub causes dryness and more effective than hand wash. 58% thought hand rubbing and hand washing to be performed in sequence. 9% answered wrongly that hand rubbing was the method required after visible exposure to blood. 93% have noticed that hand hygiene posters are displayed at point-of-care. 48% were aware of NABH. The overall knowledge on hand hygiene practices was moderate (363/557, 65%). To conclude, it is essential to train the medical students in hand hygiene practices as it helps in reducing HAIs. | Knowledge levels of medical students about hand hygiene practices in a Tertiary Hospital, Bangalore
