Patients fitted with short peripheral venous catheters (PVC) are at a heightened risk of bloodstream infections. Key to averting these catheter-related infections are multiple measures, such as rigorous hand hygiene (HH) during the catheter insertion process.
In this regard, we implemented a four-pronged study involving: an initial examination of HH practices via direct observation during PVC placements, along with an exploration of the microbial flora on healthcare workers (HCWs) fingers preceding the placement; development of an instructive tool based on the assembled observational and microbiological findings; training the HCWs under observation using this tool; and, afterwards, observing these trained HCWs to gauge the impact of the training on practices involving hygienic improvements.
Out of the 647 healthcare workers (HCWs) observed during the PVC placement before training, hand hygiene compliance was noted in 23.5%. The microbiological research unveiled fewer pathogens on the fingertips of the HCWs practicing compliant HH as compared to other HCWs (2.6 vs 11.7%; p = 0.003). When comparing practices before and after the training, out of 180 observed HCWs, we noticed a growth in the number of HCWs performing compliant hand hygiene (25.0 vs 63.2%; p < 0.001).
Our instructive tool, which utilizes key reminders of best practices and risk factors pertinent to PVC-related infections, helped HCWs better comprehend their practices, and identify shortcomings (through simulation videos), as well as objectively assess fingertip contamination (via microbiological study). Use of the tool significantly bolstered compliance with hand hygiene regulations and correct usage of gloves.
Therefore, we recommend infection control teams to utilize our tool to elevate the awareness among HCWs handling PVC placement, about the infection threats associated with inadequate hand hygiene practices.
Source: https://bmcmededuc.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12909-023-04727-x