Empowering hospital-associated infection prevention and control: A quasi-experimental study on the effect of scenario-based simulation training

Abstract

AimThis study aimed to investigate the effect of scenario-based simulation training on infection control, specifically in terms of knowledge, self-efficacy and adherence to standard precautions. BackgroundHospital-associated infections can pose a threat to patient safety and are a critical public health issue that requires attention. DesignThis quasi-experimental study employed a pre-test/post-test design using a nonequivalent control group. MethodsInfection control nurses were randomly assigned to two groups using lottery methods. The experimental group received scenario-based simulation training, whereas both the experimental and control groups received conventional education. Data were collected from 27 August to 1 December 1 2022. The chi-square test and t-test were used for data analysis. ResultsThe mean scores for knowledge of infection prevention and control (t = 3.679, p < 0.001) and self-efficacy (t = 2.444, p = 0.018) were significantly higher in the experimental group than in the control group. Furthermore, the mean score for adherence to standard precautions was significantly higher in the experimental group than in the control group (t = 2.030, p = 0.048). ConclusionOur results suggest that scenario-based simulation training for infection control might be effective in improving knowledge, self-efficacy and adherence to standard precautions. Scenario-based simulation training for infection control may be an effective educational intervention to enhance knowledge, self-efficacy and adherence to standard precautions, thus empowering nurses in infection prevention and control.