Abstract

Poor hygiene practices in healthcare facilities contribute significantly to the spread of diseases and compromise
public health outcomes, especially in resource-limited settings like South Sudan. This study presents a
comprehensive assessment of the multifaceted factors influencing hygiene conditions in selected healthcare
facilities in South Sudan. Using a mixed-methods approach, data were collected from Juba Teaching Hospital,
Bentiu State Hospital, Nyal Primary Health Care Centre, and Ganyliel Primary Health Care Centre. The study
population included medical professionals, hospital staff, patients, and visitors. The results revealed a range of
individual, environmental, and health facility factors contributing to poor hygiene. Individual behaviors such as
inadequate hand washing, improper waste disposal, and lack of infection control awareness were identified as
significant contributors to poor hygiene. Environmental factors such as inadequate sanitation infrastructure,
unreliable water supply, and improper waste management practices were also found to exacerbate hygiene
challenges. Moreover, health facility factors including overcrowding, inadequate staffing, and limited waste
disposal resources further compounded the issue. Statistical analyses demonstrated significant correlations
between these factors and poor hygiene outcomes, underscoring the complexity of the problem.
Recommendations for improving hygiene standards encompassed comprehensive training programs,
infrastructure upgrades, robust infection prevention policies, community engagement initiatives, and quality
improvement measures. By addressing these multifactorial challenges, healthcare facilities in South Sudan can
enhance hygiene standards, mitigate disease transmission, and improve overall public health outcomes. This
study contributes valuable insights to the global discourse on healthcare hygiene and underscores the urgent
need for tailored interventions in resource-constrained settings to ensure safe and hygienic healthcare
environments.