Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate public awareness and practices related to wound care and the prevention of wound infections among residents of Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia.
Methods: This community-based cross-sectional study evaluated awareness, knowledge, and practices related to wound care and infection prevention among 455 adult residents of Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia. Data were collected using a structured, self-administered questionnaire, developed after an extensive literature review and adapted from previous literature, with content validity confirmed by a three-member expert panel. A pilot study with 25 participants assessed clarity and feasibility, and the tool demonstrated good reliability (Cronbach’s α = 0.772).
Results: Most participants (75.7%) reported prior wound experiences, yet only 45.8% sought immediate medical care. Overall knowledge was limited, with a mean score of 42.5%; misconceptions about traditional remedies and inappropriate home-based practices were common. Higher knowledge was observed among females, healthcare workers, and participants using credible information sources.
Conclusion: These findings highlighted critical gaps in wound care literacy and the persistence of unsafe practices, emphasizing the need for culturally sensitive educational interventions integrated into community outreach and surgical patient counseling to reduce preventable wound complications.

Key words: Public awareness, practices, wound care, prevention, wound infections, Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia