Healthcare-associated infection and the patient experience: a qualitative study using patient interviews

There is an increasing emphasis on the need for further patient involvement within healthcare to ensure that the voice of the patient is heard. This exploratory study utilised in-depth face-to-face interviews with patients to explore narratives from their experiences around healthcare-associated infection (HCAI). Interviews were undertaken with patients who had been diagnosed with a Staphylococcus aureus bloodstream infection and patients who had been in the same hospital but had not been diagnosed with a bloodstream infection. The lack of both verbal and written communications was a major concern for most patients regardless of their infection status. Some patients also stated that they were not comfortable about asking questions, and only a small number of patients and relatives stated that they would challenge staff about their practice. Although some patients retained confidence in the National Health Service (NHS), the majority had very little or no confidence in the NHS in relation to HCAI and would have serious concerns about this if they were to return to hospital. The results suggest that there are a number of issues that must be addressed in order to enhance the quality of care, safety of patients and the patient experience in relation to infection prevention and control. In addition, policy-makers, managers and all healthcare workers must ensure that patients are involved in the design and evaluation of systems change and information.