Knowledge-Practice Gap Regarding Surgical Scrubs Among Medical Students: A Cross-Sectional Survey

Abstract Background: Medical students are involved in various aspects of patient care. Their lack of knowledge regarding infection control can compromise the safety of the patients. In this study, we describe the current knowledge and practice of medical students regarding surgical scrubs. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional survey among medical students using a self-administered questionnaire. The questions were based on the American Association of Surgical Technologists Standards of Practice for Surgical Attire, Surgical Scrub, Hand Hygiene, and Handwashing. Results: Most students correctly identified the components of surgical scrubs including scrub suit (95.5%), shoe covers (95.4%), headcover (94.9%), and masks (93.9%). 82.7% of students were aware of the policy of wearing surgical scrubs off-campus, 78.7% knew the correct method of using the protective over gowns, only 52.8% knew permissible areas for wearing surgical scrubs. Students’ adequate knowledge did not translate into their practices. 57.1% of the students reported not having received any formal education on scrub use. Inconvenience (66.9%), was cited as the most common cause of scrub re-use and unsafe practices. Conclusions: Medical students have sufficient knowledge regarding surgical scrubs which does not translate into their practices. The majority of the students report as not having received any formal training regarding surgical scrub guidelines. Improving medical student surgical scrub practices may help reduce the burden of HAIs in developing countries.