Applying the theoretical framework of behavioural change to sustainable infection prevention and control based on a...

Infection prevention and control (IPC) is inherently sustainable by reducing avoidable infections and subsequent interventions.

To encompass the perspectives of a binational multi-disciplinary group of experts based on a workshop on the capabilities, opportunities and motivations needed to overcome key barriers to the successful implementation of even more sustainable IPC with regard to ecological sustainability.

The 16 workshop participants were divided into groups to discuss three different issues regarding the most sustainable IPC following the World Café method. Carrying out a content analysis, the results were categorized into common themes - first for each question and then overall - and those categories were mapped into the Capability, Opportunity, Motivation and Behaviour (COM-B) model.

Five intervention functions were identified across two sources of behaviour of the COM-B framework, whereby 10 of the 16 categorized interventions could be initiated directly by the IPC practitioners, whilst others need to be led by the hospital management. A recurring theme was the need for a well-structured, high-quality database that weighs patient safety and sustainability at the source of any intervention.

While a top-down approach is essential in parts, various interventions can also be initiated and led directly by IPC practitioners. In addition, to ensure sustainable and lasting changes in practice, there needs to be structured and comprehensive data collection. These results add valuable information for healthcare facilities and IPC practitioners who want to become more environmentally-friendly.