Is evidence guiding practice? Reported versus observed adherence to contact precautions: a pilot study

Area of Science:

• Infection Control
• Patient Safety
• Healthcare Epidemiology

Background:

• Hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) pose a significant threat to patient safety.
• Contact precautions are essential for preventing the spread of infections.
• Understanding staff adherence to these guidelines is critical.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess healthcare staff's knowledge, attitudes, and adherence to contact precaution guidelines.
• To identify barriers affecting the implementation of contact precautions.
• To compare adherence between different healthcare settings.

Main Methods:

• A comparative study utilizing surveys and direct nonparticipant observation.
• Involved healthcare staff from medical/surgical units at an academic medical center (MDAMC) and a community medical center (CMC).
• Evaluated knowledge, attitudes, self-reported behaviors, and observed practices.

Main Results:

• Knowledge scores varied, with the MDAMC showing higher scores.
• Observed adherence to contact precaution behaviors was significantly lower at the CMC compared to the MDAMC.
• Hand hygiene before glove application was consistently low across both settings.
• Perception of time as a barrier differed between the two centers.

Conclusions:

• Despite extensive focus on patient safety, adherence to evidence-based contact precaution guidelines remains suboptimal.
• Sustained efforts at both organizational and individual levels are necessary to enhance adherence.
• Targeted interventions may be required to address specific barriers and improve practice.