Implementation of WASH in health centres (Côte d’Ivoire)

Healthcare facilities must have access to safe water, proper sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) in order to serve their patients effectively. A lack of water supply infrastructure, hand-washing facilities, and functional toilets can lead to the rapid spread of diseases, exposing patients and healthcare workers at risk. In order to tackle this issue, a team conducted cross-sectional surveys in Dékoué from February to March 2023, assessing the state of WASH access in 10 health facilities, including dispensaries, clinics, and a general hospital. The team observed directly and filled out a questionnaire based on their findings. The results indicate that 90% of the health centers had at least one improved, usable, and available toilet, but 30% did not have access to drinking water during the visit, and some lacked latrines. Despite having functional hand-washing facilities near treatment areas, only 10% of the health centers had posters promoting hand hygiene visible in patients’ waiting rooms, while 60% had functional hand- washing facilities near the treatment areas. The study emphasizes the need for further efforts to enhance WASH at Duékoué’s health centers.