Hand hygiene and biomedical waste management: Impact of the student-centered training

Abstract Introduction Ensuring good knowledge in Hand Hygiene (HH) and biomedical waste management (BMWM) among medical students is crucial to adopt good practices and to ensure patient safety. However, interventions targeting these areas among students remain limited. Our study aimed to assess the effectiveness of the student-centered training in enhancing the knowledge and attitudes related to HH and BMWM among medical students. Methods A quasi-experimental study was conducted from January 2023 to December 2024 among fifth-year students enrolled at the Faculty of Medicine of Monastir in Tunisia. The questionnaire was anonymous and self-administered both before and after the training. We opted for the student-centered training method based on courses prepared by students. We used the World Health Organization HH Knowledge Questionnaire and BMWM audit validated by The Nosocomial Infection Control Committee in France. Results A total of 152 students were involved in the study, with a mean age of 22.92 years±1.98. The majority were females (77%). Regarding HH knowledge, there was a statistically significant increase in post-test scores compared to pre-test scores (11.29±2.34 vs 14.08±2.47, p < 0.001). Concerning infectious waste management, median scores were significantly higher in post-test scores (20[12-23] vs 24[22-26], p < 0.001). Nearly 75% of students reported being highly satisfied with the training progression. Conclusions The student-centered method resulted in an improvement of knowledge and attitudes regarding HH as well as infectious BMWM among medical students. Continuous training is essential to further enhance hygiene practices and ensure sustained improvements. Key messages • This study is one of the first surveys in Tunisia to evaluate the effectiveness of the Student-Centered Training on BMWM and HH knowledge. • This study highlighted that the student-centred method resulted in an improvement in medical students knowledge and attitudes.