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. 2015 Jul-Aug;36(4):267-72.
doi: 10.1016/j.gerinurse.2015.02.023. Epub 2015 Mar 18.

Understanding infection prevention and control in nursing homes: A qualitative study

Patricia W Stone  1 , Carolyn T A Herzig  2 , Monika Pogorzelska-Maziarz  3 , Eileen Carter  4 , Ragnhildur I Bjarnadottir  2 , Patricia K Semeraro  2 , Catherine C Cohen  2 , Jasmine Travers  2 , Steven Schweon  5
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Understanding infection prevention and control in nursing homes: A qualitative study

Patricia W Stone et al. Geriatr Nurs. 2015 Jul-Aug.

Abstract

Infections have been identified as a priority issue in nursing homes (NHs). We conducted a qualitative study purposively sampling 10 NHs across the country where 6-8 employees were recruited (N = 73). Semi-structured, open-ended guides were used to conduct in-depth interviews. Data were audiotaped, transcribed and a content analysis was performed. Five themes emerged: 'Residents' Needs', 'Roles and Training' 'Using Infection Data,' 'External Resources' and 'Focus on Hand Hygiene.' Infection prevention was a priority in the NHs visited. While all sites had hand hygiene programs, other recommended areas were not a focus and many sites were not aware of available resources. Developing ways to ensure effective, efficient and standardized infection prevention and control in NHs continues to be a national priority.

Keywords: Healthcare-associated infections; Infection prevention; Long-term care; Nursing homes; Qualitative.

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Conflict of interest statement

Conflict of interest: M. Pogorzelska-Maziarz serves as a paid consultant to Becton, Dickinson and Company. During the past year, S. Schweon has served as a paid consultant to Crothall Healthcare, Rubbermaid, Touchpoint, GOJO Industries, and APIC Consulting. The consulting work was unrelated to the research presented in this article. The remaining authors have no conflicts of interest to disclose.

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