Objectives; The study was designed to assess knowledge of Standard Precautions (SP) among HCP of Al–Ahsa governorate in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia, to identify the correlates that influence it and to determine the gaps in their knowledge.

Material and methods; A cross–sectional study was conducted in six hospitals in Al–Ahsa. A structured, self–administered questionnaire was used as study tool to assess the knowledge. The questionnaire contained multiple statements concerning various aspects of SP.  

Results; A total of 201 HCP were surveyed. Majority of the respondents were females (78.4%) and between 20–40 years. Nearly half were Filipinos and a third were Saudis. Correct options were chosen by a majority of the HCP in most aspects of SP. However, a considerable number did not know about crucial SP measures. The knowledge score of surveyed HCP in this study was acceptable (74%). There was no significant difference in mean awareness among male and female groups (p value 0.559) and between HCP at government and private hospitals (p value 0.699). Physicians were more knowledgeable than other HCP (p value 0.0001). Indians and the Filipinos were more aware than other nationalities. No significant difference was observed with regards to years of experience and age of the patients.

Conclusions ; There is a gap in the understanding of a few aspects of SP among HCP including duration of hand washing, sharp disposal and recapping of used needles, use of PPE and post exposure prophylaxis .