Knowledge of housekeeping cleaners about cleaning and disinfection related to hospital infection

Abstract

Aim: to identify the knowledge of housekeeping cleaners of cleaning and disinfection, related to prevention of hospital infection. Method: qualitative, descriptive research, carried out with 31 housekeeping cleaners of a general hospital in the south of Minas Gerais. The data collection occurred between September and October 2012, through open interviews. Data were analyzed according to the theoretical framework of Minayo, through content analysis, and were grouped into the categories: knowledge of hospital infection and performing disinfection and cleaning procedures. Results: participants showed little knowledge of hospital infection and described the cleaning and disinfection procedures, but there were flaws in performing these procedures. They identified the importance of their work, despite mentioning dissatisfaction by the lack of recognition and professional development. Conclusion: the results showed the need for training in day to day work of these professionals