Factors influencing the self-perceived practice levels of professional standard competency among infection control nurses in Korea

Abstract

This study investigated the self-perceived infection control (IC) knowledge and practice levels of professional standards competency (PSC) among Korean infection control nurses (ICNs) to identify factors that may influence PSC. Using a self-reporting questionnaire method, we collected data from a total of 104 ICNs. The average self-perceived IC knowledge level was 3.1 ± 0.8, with hand hygiene scoring the highest at 3.7 ± 0.8. The total proportion of responders who did not meet the expected standard in 4 future-oriented domains was 51.7%. Of the 4 domains, technology had the highest number of respondents meeting the desired standard (57%). There were significant differences in self-perceived levels of PSC in relation to ICN specialist certification and continuing education (eg, extra coursework, conference attendance) in the field. Self-perceived practice levels of PSC also were significantly correlated with age, years of total clinical experience, years of ICN experience, hospital bed count, and IC knowledge. Predictors of self-perceived practice levels of PSC were knowledge and years of ICN experience. Educational programs are needed to promote knowledge and competency, the lack of which was recognized by the ICNs. Also, various efforts are needed to prevent turnover of ICNs with a high level of competency.