Management actions for prevention and control of healthcare-associated infections: A grounded theory approach.

Abstract

To understand the management actions for prevention and control of health care-associated infections (HAIs) performed by health professionals. Prevention of nosocomial infections has evidence-based practice at its essence, but not all institutions are successful in implementing prevention methodology. Qualitative research with Grounded Theory methodological framework. The research was carried out in two southern Brazilian hospitals. Data collected were employed through open interviews with 21 health professionals and managers. This process occurred concurrently with the data analysis, through constant comparative analysis. The understanding of the co-responsibility of managerial actions emerged as a central phenomenon of the theoretical model. Management actions for the prevention and control of HAIs are a collective phenomenon, in which co-responsibility sustains the effectiveness of the offered assistance. The behaviours of health teams in the face of structural and human weaknesses influence the construction of a supportive relationship in the effectiveness of patient safety actions. The sharing of responsibilities between professionals and the actions of prevention and control of HAIs arising from this conduct positively influence the promotion of safer and improved quality care. Nursing managers should consider applying the tools to prevent and control HAIs and generate in-depth discussion to promote institution's cultural changes.