Hand hygiene among healthcare workers: A qualitative meta summary using the GRADE-CERQual process

Hand hygiene is considered an effective and potentially modifiable infection control behaviour among healthcare workers (HCW). Several meta-studies have been published that compare quantitatively expressed findings, but limited efforts have been made to synthesise qualitative research.

This paper provides the first report of integrated findings from qualitative research reports on hand hygiene compliance among HCW worldwide that employs the GRADE-CERQual process of quality assessment.

We conducted database searches and identified 36 reports in which authors conducted qualitative or mixed methods research on hand hygiene compliance among HCW. We used Dedoose analysis software to facilitate extraction of relevant excerpts. We applied the GRADE-CERQual process to describe relative confidence as high, moderate or low for nine aggregate findings.

Highest confidence findings included that HCW believe they have access to adequate training, and that management and resource support are sometimes lacking. Individual, subjective criteria also influence hand hygiene.

These results suggest the need for further investigation into healthcare cultures that are perceived as supportive for infection control. Surveillance processes have potential, especially if information is perceived by HCW as timely and relevant.