Assessment of Infection Control Practices in Operating Theatres at Selected Hospitals in Kwara State

Operating theatre infection control is fundamental to preventing surgical site infections and healthcare-associated pathogens. Breaches in sterility and hygiene protocols within theatre environments continue to contribute to preventable postoperative morbidity in Nigerian hospitals. This study assesses infection control practices in operating theatres at three selected hospitals in Kwara State, North Central Nigeria, in 2023. An observational audit combined with structured staff interviews was employed at two secondary and one tertiary hospital. Theatre infection control indicators assessed included handwashing compliance, sterile gowning and gloving technique, instrument sterilization verification, and theatre ventilation standards. Environmental swab cultures were collected from high-touch surfaces on two occasions. Compliance with hand hygiene before and after procedures was 61%, with glove changes between patients observed in only 74% of cases. Autoclave validation records were incomplete in two of three facilities. Environmental cultures yielded significant bacterial growth from instrument trolleys and door handles in all three theatres. Air exchange systems were non-functional in one theatre. The study recommends theatre infection control committees, regular environmental microbiology surveillance, autoclave maintenance programs, and structured staff training in sterility principles at all Kwara State hospital theatres. Keywords: infection control, operating theatre, sterility, Kwara State, SSI prevention