The Impact Of Training Healthcare Personnel On Improving Infection Control Practices In Light Of The Presence Of Modern Technology In Healthcare Facilities

Abstract

Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) have remained a significant international issue, with much of this problem being the lack of a well-documented gap between theoretical knowledge about infection prevention and control (IPC) guidelines and their active implementation in clinical practice. Although training and technology are considered to be important in IPC, there is a gap in the existing literature that has researched on them as independent variables without looking at the opportunities of the combination of the two. The purpose of this study thus was to determine the effectiveness of a technology enhanced training intervention using a structured approach in improving the IPC practices among the frontline healthcare staff. The quasi-experimental pre-test/ post-test research was developed on 198 participants admitted in high-risk units. The program consisted of a multifaceted, eight-week intervention based on interactive e-learning, virtual reality simulating exercises, a gamified mobile application, and data feedback of smart hand-hygiene dispensers. Information was gathered using direct observations, knowledge assessment tests and technological measures at baseline and three months of intervention. The outcomes showed statistically significant improvement on all outcomes. The change in hand hygiene compliance was +20.7 (95% CI [19.1, 22.3], p<0.001) directly observed (hand hygiene compliance changed, but the difference between the control-1 and control-2 groups was not significant, p=.037). Knowledge scores increased 17.2 (3.5) to 22.8 (2.2) (p<0.001) and PPE adherence scores also changed considerably. Moreover, it was found that the improvements were maintained during three months and were affected by professional role rather than experience. This research finds that a technologically enhanced training curriculum that is pedagogically integrated is much more effective than bare bones practices in closing the gap in implementing IPC. It offers a proven paradigm of utilizing contemporary technology to bring an enduring behavioral change, and it has a direct implication of reducing HAIs and improving patient safety.