Evaluating Strengths and Weaknesses in Compliance with Environmental Health Indicators in Educational Hospitals in Zanjan: An Approach to Improving Quality

Background: Hospital environmental health is essential for preventing healthcare-associated infections and ensuring patient safety. Although national regulations exist, data on actual compliance in Iranian hospitals are limited. This study evaluated adherence to environmental health indicators in two educational hospitals in Zanjan, Iran, in ۲۰۲۴ and identified priority areas for improvement. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional design was employed using the Ministry of Health’s standardized checklist covering ۱۱ environmental health domains. Data were collected through direct observation, staff interviews, and document review. Independent t-tests were used to compare performance between the two hospitals. Results: Both hospitals demonstrated full compliance in most domains, including human resources, waste management, water and wastewater quality, kitchen and laundry hygiene, specialized wards, laboratory and radiology safety, sterilization, and ancillary services. No statistically significant differences were observed between hospitals (p-value > ۰.۰۵). Notable weaknesses included outdated ventilation systems in older wards, limited space in the Central Sterile Services Department, and suboptimal storage of sterile equipment. Conclusion: The study confirmed strong overall adherence to environmental health standards, while highlighting infrastructure and resource gaps that require attention. Continuous monitoring, targeted investment, and strategic planning are crucial for sustaining compliance and aligning hospital practices with international environmental health standards.

کلیدواژه ها:

Environmental health indicators ، Hospital compliance ، Educational hospitals ، Zanjan ، Infection control