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Published on: August 30, 2018
Patients with multi-drug-resistant organisms feel inadequately informed about their status: adverse effects of
S Gaube1, S Däumling2, I Biebl3
1Department of Infection Prevention and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany; LMU Center for Leadership and People Management, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany.
Background:
Contact isolation of patients with multi-drug-resistant organisms (MDROs) is an essential element of infection prevention strategies in hospitals worldwide. However, this practice may be associated with adverse side effects on patients' health and well-being.
Aim:
This study was the first to assess mental health and well-being variables among isolated patients compared with non-isolated control patients in a German cohort.
Methods:
We conducted a matched case-control study among N = 267 patients admitted to a tertiary care teaching hospital in Germany. Their levels of anxiety, depression, loneliness, and dissatisfaction with their hospital experience were assessed using a questionnaire. Additionally, among isolated patients, it was evaluated how well they felt informed about their MDRO status.
Findings:
In our cohort, patients under contact isolation were significantly more dissatisfied than non-isolated control patients but did not show higher levels of anxiety, depression, and loneliness. A large proportion of patients felt insufficiently informed about their MDRO status. This lack of information was the strongest predictor of dissatisfaction among isolated patients.
Conclusion:
These findings underline the importance of adequate patient communication. It is essential for patients' well-being to receive timely, relevant, and understandable information about the background and consequences of their infection or colonisation with MDROs.
Insights
Patients in contact isolation for multi-drug-resistant organisms (MDROs) experienced higher dissatisfaction, primarily due to insufficient information. Improving patient communication is crucial for their well-being during isolation.
Area of Science:
- Infection Prevention and Control
- Patient Experience and Well-being
- Healthcare Management
Background:
- Contact isolation for multi-drug-resistant organisms (MDROs) is a standard infection control measure.
- This practice may negatively impact patient mental health and overall well-being.
- Limited research exists on the psychological effects of isolation in German healthcare settings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate mental health and well-being in isolated versus non-isolated patients.
- To compare levels of anxiety, depression, loneliness, and dissatisfaction.
- To assess patient understanding of their MDRO status and its impact.
Main Methods:
- A matched case-control study involving 267 patients in a German tertiary care hospital.
- Utilized questionnaires to assess psychological variables and patient satisfaction.
- Investigated the correlation between information levels and dissatisfaction among isolated patients.
Main Results:
- Isolated patients reported significantly higher dissatisfaction compared to controls.
- No significant differences were found in anxiety, depression, or loneliness levels.
- A substantial number of isolated patients felt inadequately informed about their MDRO status, which was the strongest predictor of dissatisfaction.
Conclusions:
- Adequate and timely patient communication regarding MDROs is vital.
- Ensuring patients understand the reasons and implications of isolation enhances well-being.
- Healthcare providers must prioritize clear, relevant information delivery to mitigate negative patient experiences.
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