The Student Nurses Knowledge and Compliance with Standard Precautions to Prevent Hospital-Acquired Infections at Selected Institution, Kulgam

Background: Hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) pose a major threat to patient safety and healthcare quality. Adherence to standard precautions is essential for infection prevention, particularly among nursing students who are frequently exposed to clinical risks during training. Objective: This study aimed to assess the knowledge and compliance of nursing students with standard precautions for the prevention of HAIs at South Kashmir Paramedical and Nursing College, Kulgam, Jammu and Kashmir. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 200 nursing students using a structured, self-administered questionnaire based on CDC guidelines. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Pearson’s correlation to evaluate the relationship between knowledge and compliance. Results: The mean knowledge score was 5.2 ± 1.1 (out of 7), and the mean compliance score was 36.8 ± 5.4 (out of 45), indicating moderate to high levels of awareness and adherence. A statistically significant moderate positive correlation (r = 0.42, p < 0.01) was found between knowledge and compliance. Conclusion: While students demonstrated satisfactory knowledge and compliance, gaps remain in translating knowledge into consistent clinical practice. Strengthening hands-on training, mentorship, and institutional support is recommended to enhance infection control outcomes.