Nurse Perceptions of Barriers to Infection Prevention and Control in Labor and Delivery

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Infection Prevention and Control
• Nursing Research

Background:

• Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) remain a significant concern in obstetric settings.
• Effective infection prevention and control (IPC) practices are crucial for maternal and neonatal outcomes.
• Limited research exists on specific barriers faced by labor and delivery nurses in implementing IPC.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify nurse perceptions of barriers to performing recommended IPC practices in labor and delivery.
• To inform the development of targeted resources and interventions for this specific clinical setting.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study utilizing two focus groups.
• Convenience sample of 16 labor and delivery nurses.
• Data analyzed using Krueger's systematic analysis process by three independent reviewers.

Main Results:

• Five major themes emerged regarding IPC barriers: lack of accountability, inconsistent guidance application, unpredictable labor and delivery environment, low prioritization of IPC resources, and poor care coordination.
• Participants highlighted challenges in consistent implementation of recommended IPC practices.
• Themes underscore systemic and environmental factors impacting IPC adherence.

Conclusions:

• Identified barriers experienced by nurses hinder consistent IPC practice in labor and delivery.
• Targeted interventions and obstetric-specific IPC resources are needed.
• Addressing these barriers can improve patient safety and outcomes in labor and delivery settings.