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. 2021 Sep;49(9):1093-1098.
doi: 10.1016/j.ajic.2021.07.003.

Infection preventionists' experiences during the first nine months of the COVID-19 pandemic: Findings from focus groups conducted with Association of Professionals in Infection Control & Epidemiology (APIC) members

Terri Rebmann  1 , Rebecca T Alvino  2 , Rachel L Mazzara  3 , Jessica Sandcork  3
Affiliations

Infection preventionists' experiences during the first nine months of the COVID-19 pandemic: Findings from focus groups conducted with Association of Professionals in Infection Control & Epidemiology (APIC) members

Terri Rebmann et al. Am J Infect Control. 2021 Sep.

Abstract

Introduction: A novel human Coronavirus (SARS CoV-2) was identified in January, 2020 and developed into a pandemic by March, 2020. This rapid, enormous, and unanticipated event had major implications for healthcare. Infection preventionists (IP) have a critical role in worker and patient safety. IPs' lessons learned can guide future pandemic response.

Methods: Seven focus groups were conducted with APIC members in September and October, 2020 via Zoom to elicit IPs' experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic. Sessions were recorded then transcribed verbatim. Major themes were identified through content analysis.

Results: In total, 73 IPs participated (average of 10 IPs per focus group) and represented all geographical areas and work settings. Participating IPs described multiple challenges they have faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, including rapidly changing and conflicting guidance, a lack of infection prevention recommendations for nonacute care settings, insufficient personal protective equipment, healthcare personnel complacency with personal protective equipment and infection prevention protocols, and increases in healthcare associated infections and workload.

Conclusions: The identified gaps in pandemic response need to be addressed in order to minimize healthcare associated infections and occupational illness. In addition, the educational topics identified by the participating IPs should be developed into new educational programs and resources.

Keywords: Burnout; Healthcare associated infection; Long term care; Personal protective equipment; Surge capacity.

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