Nursing students led simulations to improve healthcare workers’ hand hygiene compliance

Abstract

Background Hand hygiene compliance (HHC) is recognised as a major factor in the prevention of healthcare-associated infections. Healthcare workers (HCWs) compliance is still suboptimal. Simulation as an educational strategy may contribute to improved performance. Objective This study aimed to assess the effect of simulation interventions led by nursing students on HCWs’ HHC. Method A prospective quasi-experimental design with before and after intervention measurements was implemented in an 1150-bed tertiary hospital. Four consecutive periods, measuring before and after HHC, were examined in four hospital divisions. For each division, unique simulation activities were developed and led by nursing students, educators, and hospital leaders. Sixty seven students and 286 healthcare workers, along with two nurse educators, participated in the simulation sessions. HHC of all HCWs in the divisions was assessed by hospital infection control personnel. Results Hospital HHC rose across the four periods in all four divisions during this study. In three out of four periods and divisions, HHC increased significantly more in the simulation intervention groups compared to the overall hospital improvement. Conclusion Student-led simulation for HCWs is an additional effective method to improve HHC. Nursing managers should consider joining forces with nursing educators to enable students to become agents of change in healthcare settings and encourage further collaboration.