The Impact of General Hospital Nurses' Infection Control Awareness, Organizational Culture, and Nursing Professionalism on Infection Control Competence

Purpose: This study investigated the effects of infection control awareness, infection control organizational culture, and nursing professionalism on infection control competence among nurses working in general hospitals. By analyzing both individual-level and organizational-level factors, this study sought to provide foundational data for improving infection control practices and for developing effective education and policy strategies. Methods: A total of 215 nurses working at general hospitals in Deajeon Metropolitan City who agreed to participate were surveyed using structured questionnaires. Data were analyzed using SPSS Statistics 29.0. Descriptive statistics, independent t-tests, and one-way ANOVA were conducted to examine group differences, whereas Pearson’s correlation coefficients and multiple regression analysis were used to explore relationships and predictive factors. Results: Correlation analysis revealed positive relationships between infection control competence and infection control awareness (r=.38, <i>p</i><.001), organizational culture (r=.46, <i>p</i><.001), and nursing professionalism (r=.46, <i>p</i><.001). Multiple regression analysis showed that these three variables, together with working in an integrated nursing care ward, were significant predictors of infection control competence. Conclusion: This study highlights the need for multifaceted strategies to strengthen infection control competence among general hospital nurses. In particular, raising awareness through systematic and practice-oriented education programs is essential. Furthermore, fostering a positive organizational culture and reinforcing professional nursing identity should be addressed at the institutional level.