Searching for management approaches to reduce HAI transmission (SMART): a study protocol

Area of Science:

• Healthcare quality improvement
• Patient safety research
• Health services research

Background:

• Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) lead to prolonged hospital stays, increased morbidity, and mortality, imposing significant costs.
• Central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs) and catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs) are common, preventable HAIs.
• Existing programs like the Comprehensive Unit-based Safety Program (CUSP) show variable success, and new reimbursement policies necessitate broader HAI reduction strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate reliable survey measures of management practices that support HAI reduction.
• To assess the predictive value of these measures for CLABSI and CAUTI prevention.
• To create a toolkit and dashboard for hospitals to monitor and improve HAI reduction efforts.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods approach was used to evaluate management factors in HAI reduction.
• Developed and validated the HAI Management Practice Guideline Survey for use in medical/surgical units and ICUs.
• Planned nationwide deployment of the survey and integration of findings into a practical toolkit.

Main Results:

• The study successfully developed and validated the HAI Management Practice Guideline Survey.
• The survey aims to predict the effectiveness of HAI prevention strategies.
• Findings will inform a toolkit to support hospitals in reducing HAIs.

Conclusions:

• Measuring and improving management structures is crucial for reducing HAIs.
• This research provides essential tools and guidance for hospitals to enhance patient safety.
• The developed toolkit will empower healthcare settings to proactively manage and reduce infection rates.