Determinants of Infection Prevention and Control Practices in Japanese Nursing Homes: A Scoping Review

Understanding the determinants influencing healthcare workers' (HCWs) behaviors is essential for promoting infection prevention and control (IPC) in Japanese nursing homes (NHs). This scoping review aimed to map IPC determinants in Japanese NHs using two behavior change frameworks and to identify research gaps. We conducted a scoping review using three databases, following the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology. Reviewers independently screened reports, assessed eligibility, and extracted IPC behavior determinants. Extracted data were mapped and thematically analyzed using the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF) and the Capability, Opportunity, and Motivation-Behavior model. Of 1778 records identified, 22 reports published between 2006 and 2021 met the inclusion criteria. We codified 70 determinants and generated 15 themes. Most reports addressed barriers related to limited IPC knowledge, skills, resources, and systems. Facilitators were mainly codified within motivation-related TDF domains, where an underexplored research gap was identified. Further research focusing on IPC motivation and a deeper understanding of NH contexts is important for developing context-appropriate IPC promotion strategies. A participatory approach involving NH residents and HCWs may be helpful in future research.