Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 25, 2025
Author Spotlight: Exploring the Antibacterial Effects of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles in Overcoming Antibiotic Resistance
Published on: September 27, 2024
Understanding patient and healthcare worker experiences and perspectives of multidrug-resistant organisms
Eliza Watson1, Tess Tsindos2,3, Anton Y Peleg1,4
1Department of Infectious Diseases, Alfred Hospital and Central Clinical School, Monash University, Level 2, 85 Commercial Road, Melbourne, Victoria 3004, Australia.
Objectives:
Transmission of MDR organisms (MROs) such as carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae (CPE) and VRE in healthcare facilities is a major issue globally. Knowledge gaps exist, including the impact of these microorganisms on patients, and healthcare worker understanding of infection control approaches for MROs. This study aimed to explore patient and healthcare worker experiences and perspectives of MROs.
Methods:
A sequential exploratory mixed-methods study was performed at a large metropolitan acute and subacute hospital. This involved semi-structured face-to-face interviews with patients with confirmed MROs to explore their understanding of these microorganisms and perceptions of their time in hospital. Healthcare workers participated in an online survey about their understanding of MROs and the care of patients with these microorganisms. Qualitative data were analysed using the COM-B framework, and were triangulated with the descriptive quantitative analysis.
Results:
The overarching theme from the triangulated data was uncertainty amongst both patients and staff about MROs. Insufficient explanations from staff left patients lacking a proper understanding of their diagnosis, and patients felt that staff did not always follow isolation protocols. Staff felt they did not receive enough education on MROs. However, patients felt that the overall care they received was very good, and most valued the privacy gained from being in isolation.
Conclusions:
This study demonstrates that there is a need to focus on new strategies of communication with patients and staff education to improve understanding of MROs and increase adherence to protocols.
Insights
Healthcare staff and patients experience uncertainty regarding multidrug-resistant organisms (MROs). Improved communication and education are crucial for better understanding and adherence to infection control protocols for MROs.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Healthcare Epidemiology
- Patient Safety
Background:
- Multidrug-resistant organisms (MROs), including carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae (CPE) and vancomycin-resistant Enterococci (VRE), pose a significant global threat in healthcare settings.
- Existing knowledge gaps highlight the need to understand patient and healthcare worker (HCW) perspectives on MROs and infection control.
- This study addresses the impact of MROs on patients and HCW comprehension of infection control strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore patient and healthcare worker experiences and perspectives regarding multidrug-resistant organisms (MROs).
- To identify knowledge gaps and challenges in managing MROs within a hospital environment.
- To inform strategies for improving patient understanding and HCW education on MROs.
Main Methods:
- A sequential exploratory mixed-methods study was conducted in a large metropolitan hospital.
- Semi-structured interviews were held with patients diagnosed with MROs to assess their understanding and hospital experience.
- HCWs completed an online survey on MRO knowledge and patient care, with qualitative data analyzed using the COM-B framework and triangulated with quantitative findings.
Main Results:
- A central theme of uncertainty regarding MROs was identified among both patients and staff.
- Patients reported insufficient explanations of their diagnosis and concerns about isolation protocol adherence.
- Staff indicated a lack of adequate MRO education, though patients generally reported good care and valued privacy during isolation.
Conclusions:
- Findings underscore the necessity for enhanced communication strategies targeting patients and improved staff education on MROs.
- Implementing new approaches can foster better understanding of MROs and promote adherence to infection control protocols.
- Addressing uncertainty and knowledge gaps is vital for effective MRO management in healthcare facilities.
Related Concept Videos
01:30Development of Antibiotic Resistance
01:22Healthcare Associated Infections II: Preventive Measures
The best practices for preventing healthcare-associated infections include hand hygiene, patient risk...
02:56Treatment Resistant Cancers
01:26Urine Studies II: Urine Culture and Sensitivity Test
01:30Urinary Tract Infection III: Diagnostic Studies and Interprofessional Care
01:28Pulmonary Tuberculosis V
Latent tuberculosis infection occurs when TB bacteria are present in a person's body, but are not causing illness or symptoms. It is not contagious, and preventive treatment is crucial to avoid the...