Feasibility of a Photovoice Study Promoting Respirator Use among Russian Health Care Workers

Abstract

Objectives: Russian health care workers in tuberculosis hospitals have a high incidence of nosocomial TB. Proper use of respirators in high-risk settings can lower this threat, but health care workers do not always follow protocols that minimize risk. Our objectives were to: (1) determine feasibility of conducting a larger scale study, and (2) test effectiveness of a photovoice intervention for changing attitudes and behaviors of Russian HCWs with regard to following protocols.

Design and sample: A convenience sample of 20 HCWs was recruited from a regional TB hospital in Russia to participate in this single-group experimental-design feasibility study.

Measures: Participants completed a survey prior to and following the intervention.

Intervention: Participants photographed someone important to them then wrote a short narrative describing why that significant other motivated them to wear and fit-check respirators.

Author: As per journal style, "Intervention" subheading to be included in the "Abstract" section if this heading appears in the "Methods" section. Therefore, either include this heading in the "Methods" section or delete the subheading "Intervention" along with its text found in the "Abstract" section.

Results: We identified four areas to revise prior to undertaking a larger experimental study. The intervention had a significant effect on intention to wear and fit-check respirators. Perceived behavioral control predicted intention to wear respirators, F(3,16) = 20.383, p < .001. Subjective norm and perceived behavioral control predicted intention to fit-check respirators, F(3,16) = 44.571, p < .001.

Conclusions: Results suggest photovoice may be an efficacious intervention and larger scale testing is warranted.

Keywords: health care workers; infection prevention and control; photovoice; tuberculosis.