Awareness Of Infection Control Research Articles

Nosocomial Outbreak of SARS-CoV-2 in a Hospital Ward during the Omicron Variant-Dominant Wave with a Review of the Relevant Literature.

Clusters of nosocomial coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) have been reported globally during the recent pandemic. Unfortunately, these clusters negatively affect inpatient morbidity, mortality, and hospital functioning. Using epidemiological data and whole-genome sequencing (WGS) of SARS-CoV-2, this study investigated the outbreak of COVID-19 at a university hospital. Eight inpatients and 13 healthcare workers tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 during a 1-month period. WGS of the virus in 11 patients revealed that the two variants of concern belonging to the Omicron sublineages, BA.2.3 and BA1.1.2, caused an outbreak when the proportion of the Omicron lineage in the community changed. When variants of concern undergo mutation, a response to the outbreak should be made with multiple variants in mind, even in the absence of epidemiological data showing close contact or other potential vectors of infection. Awareness of infection prevention and control should be raised to safeguard patient safety.

Using Video-Reflexive Methods to Develop a Provider Down Protocol for the New South Wales Biocontainment Center.

The New South Wales Biocontainment Centre is a statewide referral facility for patients with high-consequence infectious disease (HCID). The facility collaborates with researchers to adapt existing HCID procedures such as donning and doffing of personal protective equipment (PPE). However, information on how to respond safely to collapse of a healthcare provider in full PPE within a contaminated zone is scarce. To address this gap, we adapted Nebraska Medicine's "provider down" protocol on paper and then simulated and video recorded the process, iteratively, in the facility. Clinicians analyzed the recordings collaboratively in researcher-facilitated reflexive discussions. Our primary aim was to ascertain how to maintain optimal infection prevention and control while providing urgent care for the healthcare provider. We tested participants' suggested modifications, in repeated video recorded simulations, until consensus on optimal practice was achieved. Our secondary aim was to assess the utility of video-reflexive methods to enhance clinicians' awareness and understanding of infection prevention and control in a rare and complex scenario. Six adaptations and simulations were discussed in video-reflexive sessions before consensus was reached; the final version of the protocol differed considerably from the first. Viewing footage of simulations in situ enabled participants to (1) identify infection and occupational risks not identified on paper or during verbal postsimulation debriefs and (2) test alternative perspectives on safe procedure. Video-reflexivity enables context-sensitive and consensus-building codesign of policies and procedures, critical to protocol development in a new unit. It contributes to a culture of teamwork, preparedness, and confidence before, rather than in the heat of, a crisis.

Infection prevention and control among paramedics: A scoping review

Paramedics are exposed to many infectious diseases in their professional activities, leading to a high risk of transmitting infectious diseases to patients in out-of-hospital settings, possibly leading to health care associated infections in hospitals and the community. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of infection prevention and control in health care and the role of paramedics in infection control is considered even more critical. Despite this, in many countries such as Australia, research into infection prevention and control research has mainly been focused on in-hospital health care professionals with limited out-of-hospital studies. This scoping review was based upon Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines. Literature on knowledge and awareness of infection prevention and control in paramedics in Australia and other countries was evaluated. Based upon selection criteria applied, six papers were identified for inclusion in this review. In many studies, infection prevention and control was identified as being important, however compliance with hand hygiene practices was low and most studies highlighted the need for more education and training on infectious disease for paramedics. Current evidence suggests that paramedics have poor compliance with recommended IPC practices. The profession needs to improve IPC education, training, and culture.

Comprehensive Assessment of Hygiene Factors Contributing to Poor Healthcare Facility Conditions in South Sudan: Implications for Public Health

Poor hygiene practices in healthcare facilities contribute significantly to the spread of diseases and compromise public health outcomes, especially in resource-limited settings like South Sudan. This study presents a comprehensive assessment of the multifaceted factors influencing hygiene conditions in selected healthcare facilities in South Sudan. Using a mixed-methods approach, data were collected from Juba Teaching Hospital, Bentiu State Hospital, Nyal Primary Health Care Centre, and Ganyliel Primary Health Care Centre. The study population included medical professionals, hospital staff, patients, and visitors. The results revealed a range of individual, environmental, and health facility factors contributing to poor hygiene. Individual behaviors such as inadequate hand washing, improper waste disposal, and lack of infection control awareness were identified as significant contributors to poor hygiene. Environmental factors such as inadequate sanitation infrastructure, unreliable water supply, and improper waste management practices were also found to exacerbate hygiene challenges. Moreover, health facility factors including overcrowding, inadequate staffing, and limited waste disposal resources further compounded the issue. Statistical analyses demonstrated significant correlations between these factors and poor hygiene outcomes, underscoring the complexity of the problem. Recommendations for improving hygiene standards encompassed comprehensive training programs, infrastructure upgrades, robust infection prevention policies, community engagement initiatives, and quality improvement measures. By addressing these multifactorial challenges, healthcare facilities in South Sudan can enhance hygiene standards, mitigate disease transmission, and improve overall public health outcomes. This study contributes valuable insights to the global discourse on healthcare hygiene and underscores the urgent need for tailored interventions in resource-constrained settings to ensure safe and hygienic healthcare environments. Keywords: Poor hygiene, waste management, South Sudan, Health care, Respondents, Environmental

Behavioural determinants shaping infection prevention and control behaviour among healthcare workers in Dutch general practices: a qualitative study reflecting on pre-, during and post-COVID-19 pandemic

BackgroundSince the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, awareness of infection prevention and control (IPC) has increased in primary care settings. This study aimed to examine behavioural determinants shaping IPC behaviour pre-, during, and post-pandemic among healthcare workers (HCWs) in general practices, to inform optimised IPC in primary care.MethodsFor this qualitative study, semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted during two study periods: (1) pre-COVID-19 pandemic: July 2019-February 2020, with 14 general practitioners (GPs) and medical assistants, and (2) during the COVID-19 pandemic: July 2022-February 2023, with 22 GPs and medical assistants. The design was informed by behaviour change theories. Data were analysed using thematic analysis.ResultsMain themes were: (1) risk perception and IPC awareness, (2) attitudes towards IPC and professional responsibility, (3) decision-making process and risk considerations for IPC adherence, (4) social norm and social influence in GP practice team, and (5) environmental context and resource availability in GP practice. During the pandemic, risk perception and awareness of the importance of IPC increased compared to the pre-pandemic period. A consistent belief emerged that IPC is part of professional responsibility, while needing to be balanced with other aspects of patient care. Decision-making is dependent on the individual GP and mainly influenced by risk assessments and sustainability considerations. The social context in the practice team can reinforce IPC behaviours. GP practice building and layout, and limited IPC resource and material availability were reported as main barriers.ConclusionsThe theory-informed insights of this study can be used for targeted interventions to optimise IPC behaviour in general practices. Adopting multifaceted strategies to target the various determinants is recommended to sustain IPC, by implementing continuous education using tailored communication, integrating IPC in work routines and organisational workflows, refining existing IPC protocols by incorporating decision-making tools for HCWs, fostering a culture of IPC through knowledge-sharing and teamwork, and addressing GP practice physical environment and IPC resource barriers.

포스트코로나시대 간호사의 감염관리 피로도, 소진, 감염위험지각, 감염관리 조직문화인식이 간호업무수행에 미치는 영향

포스트코로나시대 간호사의 감염관리 피로도, 소진, 감염위험지각, 감염관리 조직문화인식이 간호업무수행에 미치는 영향

Pandemic preparedness needs for children with rare diseases and their families: A perspective of COVID-19 experiences

People living with rare diseases had a high risk of negative health outcomes due to COVID-19. Pandemic preparedness will ensure best practice procedures and optimal outcomes during future pandemic events. This paper sought to understand the needs of children with rare diseases during the COVID-19 pandemic to inform preparation for future pandemic and disaster events. First, impacts and outcomes from the COVID-19 pandemic on people living with rare disease were identified in the literature. The literature demonstrated that the COVID-19 pandemic had significant and multiple impacts on people with rare diseases. Second, a qualitative descriptive study was conducted, involving members of 17 families with a child with a rare neuromuscular disorder in 2021, to explore COVID-19 pandemic experiences. Qualitative data coded to Bronfenbrenner’s socio-ecological systems model and described impacts on the child’s physical (e.g., respiratory infections), mental (e.g., anxiety), and social (e.g., maintaining connections) health and wellbeing. Families reported resilience and risk factors in their interactions with health and therapy services, and education. Families valued diseases specific information and heightened awareness of infection control across the community. Third, public health guidelines for emergency preparedness were examined to inform recommendations for pandemic and disaster preparedness for people living with rare diseases. Guided by the literature, qualitative data and disaster management frameworks, recommendations that aim to prevent diagnostic delay, optimise coordination of health and social supports, improve education, planning and training, and maintain research and development were identified. The importance of pandemic preparedness for children with rare diseases cannot be understated. Risk and resilience factors in the context of highly individual requirements inform lessons for children living with rare diseases. This study informs future policy and procedure preparation for future pandemic events and other disasters to optimise healthcare of children with rare diseases.

중환자실 간호사의 감염관리 수행도 영향요인

The purpose of this study is to identify factors influencing nursing practice for infections control in intensive care units (ICUs). Participants were 201 registered nurses who worked in ICUs of general hospitals. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire from September 10 to October 6, 2023. And were analyzed using the t-test, One-way ANOVA, Pearson correlation coefficients and multiple regression analysis with the SPSS 28.0 program. Through multiple regression analysis, the factors influencing nursing Practice in ICUs were awareness of infection control (β=.76, p＜.001), working unit (NCU) (β=.10, p=.043). The explanation power of these variables was 65.0% (F=46.78, p＜.001). Education to enhance awareness on infection control should be established. There is a need to organize and provide specialized education and training programs for each unit.

Assessment of Infection Control Measures and Risk Factors at Kampala International University Teaching Hospital in Bushenyi District: A Study on Staff Awareness and Implementation

This research delved into the critical role of infection prevention and control in enhancing hospital care quality, particularly at Kampala International University Teaching Hospital. The primary aim was twofold: to identify risk factors associated with inadequate infection control and to evaluate the utilization of existing infection control measures among hospital staff. Conducted as a descriptive cross-sectional study within the hospital premises in Bushenyi District, the research engaged 100 respondents comprising various staff members employed at the institution, assessing their awareness of infection control through structured questionnaires. Although random sampling of 10 staff members was instrumental in refining the questionnaire for suitability, their results weren't incorporated into this study's findings. The respondent demographics showcased a predominant representation of nurses, with a majority being female employees and nearly four-fifths having worked at the hospital for less than four years. Notably, half of the respondents identified airborne infections as the most prevalent in the hospital setting. The study highlighted a positive inclination toward infection control tasks, with over 80% of participants acknowledging the effectiveness of infection control practices in curtailing the spread of infections among patients. Despite this awareness, the findings indicated a moderate level of overall awareness regarding infection control measures. While more than half of the respondents expressed favorable views on infection control practices and the utilization of available resources such as gloves, aprons, and hand hygiene, the implementation and adherence to standard precautions fell short of optimal levels. In conclusion, the study revealed a moderate level of awareness regarding infection control measures among hospital staff, with a majority holding positive attitudes toward the utilization of available resources. However, the actual implementation and adherence to standard precautions appeared suboptimal, signaling the need for enhanced efforts to bolster practice and compliance within the hospital setting. Keywords: Infection, Infection control, Waste management, Hand washing.

간호대학생의 감염관리 인지도와 환자안전 역량이 환자안전관리 활동에 미치는 영향

Objectives The purpose of this study is to identify nursing students' level of awerence of infection control, patient safety competencies and patient safety management activity and to identify factors that affect the patient safety management activity of nursing students.
 Methods This study a descriptive research, method and was conducted from October to December, 2022, with 279 nursing students from two colleges. The collected data were analyzed by frequency and percentage, independent t-test, one way ANOVA, Pearson's correlation coefficients, and multiple regression. All analyzes were conducted using SPSS 22.0.
 Results The results of the multiple regression analysis showed that the regression model was significant (F=58.18, p<.001) and that experience in patient safety education (β=.02, p=.034), awareness of the infection control (β=.45, p<.001), and patient safety competency (β=.32, p<.001) explained 44.4% of nursing students' patient safety management activity.
 Conclusions The result of imply the need to develop an education program to improve the awareness of infection control and patient safety competency, which will enhance the performance of patient safety management activity of nursing students.

Epidemiological characteristics of common respiratory infectious diseases in children before and during the COVID-19 epidemic.

Since the outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), public's awareness of infection prevention and control has increased overall, and various prevention and control measures have been adopted. These measures may also have a certain impact on the occurrence of other infectious diseases. Therefore, we collected information on children with several respiratory infectious diseases in Jinan Children's Hospital in China from 2016 to 2022 and analyzed their changes. We collected data on age, sex and number of cases of pertussis, measles, scarlet fever, pulmonary tuberculosis, mumps and influenza, which were diagnosed by clinical and laboratory criteria, from 1 January 2016 to 31 December 2022 in Jinan Children's Hospital in Jinan, Shandong Province, China. Data on the number of people affected by these diseases in China from the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention were compared. Then, we processed the data by using WPS Excel 2019 and SPSS. A total of 12,225 cases were included in this study in Jinan Children's Hospital, which consisted of 3,688 cases of pertussis (2,200 cases before COVID-19 and 1,488 during COVID-19), 680 cases of measles (650 cases before COVID-19 and 30 during COVID-19), 4,688 cases of scarlet fever (4,001 cases before COVID-19 and 687 during COVID-19), 114 cases of tuberculosis (86 cases before COVID-19 and 28 during COVID-19), 449 cases of mumps (340 cases before COVID-19 and 109 during COVID-19) and 2,606 cases of influenza (1,051 cases before COVID-19 and 1,555 during COVID-19). The numbers of children in the hospital with pertussis, measles, scarlet fever, mumps and influenza decreased substantially during COVID-19 in 2020-2022 compared with numbers in 2016-2019, while numbers of patients in China with all six respiratory infectious diseases, including pulmonary tuberculosis, declined during the pandemic. A rebound of pertussis, scarlet fever and influenza was observed in 2021 and 2022. The study found that viral pathogens such as those causing measles, mumps and influenza all decreased during the pandemic, after which influenza rebounded. Infection diseases caused by bacteria such as scarlet fever and pertussis also decreased during COVID-19, and then a rebound occurred. However, tuberculosis stayed relatively constant.

The incidence of nosocomial bloodstream infection and urinary tract infection in Australian hospitals before and during the COVID-19 pandemic: an interrupted time series study

BackgroundThe COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on healthcare including increased awareness of infection prevention and control (IPC). The aim of this study was to explore if the heightened awareness of IPC measures implemented in response to the pandemic influenced the rates of healthcare associated infections (HAI) using positive bloodstream and urine cultures as a proxy measure.MethodsA 3 year retrospective review of laboratory data from 5 hospitals (4 acute public, 1 private) from two states in Australia was undertaken. Monthly positive bloodstream culture data and urinary culture data were collected from January 2017 to March 2021. Occupied bed days (OBDs) were used to generate monthly HAI incidence per 10,000 OBDs. An interrupted time series analysis was undertaken to compare incidence pre and post February 2020 (the pre COVID-19 cohort and the COVID-19 cohort respectively). A HAI was assumed if positive cultures were obtained 48 h after admission and met other criteria.ResultsA total of 1,988 bloodstream and 7,697 urine positive cultures were identified. The unadjusted incident rate was 25.5 /10,000 OBDs in the pre-COVID-19 cohort, and 25.1/10,000 OBDs in the COVID-19 cohort. The overall rate of HAI aggregated for all sites did not differ significantly between the two periods. The two hospitals in one state which experienced an earlier and larger outbreak demonstrated a significant downward trend in the COVID-19 cohort (p = 0.011).ConclusionThese mixed findings reflect the uncertainty of the effect the pandemic has had on HAI’s. Factors to consider in this analysis include local epidemiology, differences between public and private sector facilities, changes in patient populations and profiles between hospitals, and timing of enhanced IPC interventions. Future studies which factor in these differences may provide further insight on the effect of COVID-19 on HAIs.

Evaluation of infection control at Butiru Chrisco Hospital in Manafwa District, Eastern Uganda

Infection prevention and control is important for the improvement of quality care in hospital. This study aimed to identify risk associated with infection control, and to determine which infection control measures are available at Butiru Chrisco hospital and how these measures are put to use by the staff working in the hospital. This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at Butiru Chrisco hospital in Manafwa District. The study involved 100 respondents who were staff employed by Butiru Chrisco hospital. With different educational standards, awareness of infection control was assessed through a structured questionnaire that was administered to those who consented to participate. Random sampling was done on 10 staff, this helped correct the questionnaire making it suitable for the study but the results were not included in this study. The study revealed that out of 100 respondents, 72(72%) were nurses, 60(60%) were females and 78(78%) had been employed by the hospital for less than four years. Half 50(50%) revealed that airborne infections are the commonest infections in the hospital. The study also reveals that more than 80% reported positive response to infection control tasks with 80(80%) agreeing that practice of infection control reduces likelihood of infection spread to patients. From the study, it was concluded that, there is moderate awareness of infection control with more than half of the respondents having positive ideas about infection control and use of available measures like glove, apron, and hand washing. However, practice and compliance with standard precautions was less than optimal. The researcher recommends continuous health visits by ministry of health (MOH) of Uganda to the hospital and evaluation of the practices to ensure that the health workers practice infection control following the standard guidelines. Also, hand washing or use of hand sanitizers with alcohol or other antiseptics as a measure of disinfecting the hands before or after handling a patient is encouraged. Keywords: Infection, health workers, hand washing, Manafwa District

Cross Infection Control Awareness During 5th Wave of Covid 19 Pandemic, Omicron Variant Amongst the Dental Health Care Professionals of Government Sector University in Karachi, Pakistan

Objective: The objective of this study is to evaluate the awareness of cross-infection control measures followed by DHCPs during the 5th wave of Covid-19 pandemic, Omicron variant in a government sector university of Karachi, Pakistan. Method: A Cross-sectional study was conducted from June till September 2022 at Sindh Institute of Oral Health Science during the 5th wave of Covid 19 pandemic, Omicron variant. Data was collected from 153 DHCPs from government sector university using a self-administered questionnaire, comprising of 20 closed ended question to assess the awareness and practice of cross infection protocols by DHCPs. Results: 98.7% of the participants were vaccinated against Covid 19. 96% of the participants used surgical gowns, face shields, and face masks as part of PPE during examining patients and while performing procedure. After treatment 99.3% of participants washed hands with hand wash, soap or used antiseptic solution. 77.1% of participants asked for Covid 19 test report and 68.6% of participants asked for proof of vaccination against covid 19 before treating patients. 96.1% of participants recommended disinfection of dental unit after every patient. 98% of participants changed glove after every patient. 88.2% of the participants said they would carry all elective and emergency procedures. Conclusion: The results of this study show that DHCPs practicing at government sector university have adequate knowledge regarding prevention of cross infection protocols and their importance to limit spread of infections. But their practice of prevention of cross infection during Covid 19 pandemic is not ideal as percentage of DHCPs requiring proof of vaccination or negative reports for Covid 19 were rather low and the percentage of DHCPs willing to carry elective procedures along with emergency ones was rather high. Keywords: Covid 19 pandemic, Omicron virus, cross infection control protocols, omicron

Management of SARS-CoV-2 Omicron Variant Community Screenings in Shanghai, China: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Community screening for SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant plays a significant role in controlling the spread of infection. However, loopholes may exist in the current management of community screening in Shanghai, China. The objective of this study was to discover loopholes in the management of community screening for SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant in Shanghai, China and provide targeted solutions. The cross-sectional study was carried out April 4 to April 30, 2021, among residential committee directors from the Putuo District, Pudong District, and Minhang District of Shanghai, China. Data were collected using a self-designed questionnaire about the management of nucleic acid testing (NAT) sampling in communities through the network platform powered by www.wjx.cn. A total of 203 residential committee directors responded to the survey. Of them, 47.3% were not accepted training and 40.4% were not aware of cross-infection. Comparison among sampling sites and communities, high-risk group contained lower proportion of community training (P = 0.093~0.200), higher awareness of cross-infection (P = 0.039~0.777), more medicalworkers (P = 0.007~0.724) and more tests performed (P = 0.001~0.992). Larger communities had more medicalworkers, sampling sites, sampling tables (P = 0.000) and higher awareness of cross-infection (P = 0.009), but lower proportion of community training (P = 0.051). Overall, community training and awareness of infection control were inadequate. Government or institutions should organize the community training and raise the awareness of infection control. Significant differences exist in NAT management patterns between sampling sites, as well as communities of different sizes. Residential community directors minimize high-risk sampling point settings in the future. Special personnel designated by the government or institutions should tour to guide each sampling site.

Factors affecting the infection control behaviours of Korean dental hygienists in response to the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic.

This study aimed to identify the factors affecting the prevention of cross-infection with coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) among Korean dental hygienists. The level of knowledge about COVID-19 (KNWCO ), level of awareness of infection control (AWRIC ), degree of performance for infection control (PRFIC ), and organizational factors for infection control (OFWIC ) of clinical dental hygienists in Korea to prevent COVID-19 transmission were investigated. A self-written online questionnaire was administered to dental hygienists currently working in dental clinics or hospitals, and the survey results of 263 participants were analysed. Pearson's correlation coefficients were calculated for relationships between the KNWCO , AWRIC , PRFIC , and OFWIC . Multiple linear regression analysis was performed to identify the factors affecting the PRFIC . Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Knowledge about COVID-19, AWRIC , PRFIC , and OFWIC were significantly correlated with each other. OFWIC (β=0.491, p < 0.001), followed by AWRIC (β=0.428, p < 0.001) and KNWCO (β=0.095, p=0.013), had the greatest impact on PRFIC with regard to the prevention of COVID-19 transmission. Organizational factors for infection control and AWRIC should be strengthened to improve PRFIC and prevent COVID-19 transmission during dental care.

The Effects of e-Health Literacy on Preventive Health Behaviors among Nursing Students: the Mediating Effect of Awareness of COVID-19 Infection Control

This study was conducted to explore the levels of e-health literacy, awareness of COVID-19 infection control and preventive health behaviors, and to identify the mediating effect of awareness of COVID-19 infection control in the relationship between e-Health literacy and preventive health behaviors of nursing students. The survey data of 127 nursing students were analyzed. Data were collected from 127 nursing students based in D city from October 7 to October 18, 2021 with a structured questionnaire and analyzed by SPSS Statistics 25.0. Preventive health behaviors showed a positive correlation with e-health literacy and awareness of COVID-19 infection control. With regard to the relationship between e-health literacy and preventive health behaviors, awareness of COVID-19 infection control showed a partial mediating effect. To improve preventive health behaviors, it is necessary to improve e-health literacy to access accurate information about COVID-19. These results can also be used for COVID-19 infection prevention programs and should be developed to promote preventive health behaviors considering e-Health literacy and awareness of COVID-19 infection control.

Relationship between nosocomial infections and coronavirus disease 2019 in the neurosurgery unit: clinical characteristics and outcomes from a Chinese Tertiary-Care Hospital

BackgroundThe COVID-19 pandemic has raised awareness of infection prevention and control. We found that the incidence of nosocomial infection in neurosurgery has changed. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of “coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) prevention and control measures” on nosocomial infections in neurosurgery.MethodsTo explore changes in nosocomial infections in neurosurgery during the COVID-19 pandemic, the clinical data of inpatients undergoing neurosurgery at Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province between January 1 and April 30, 2020 (COVID-19 era) were first analyzed and then compared with those from same period in 2019 (first pre-COVID-19 era). We also analyzed data between May 1 and December 31, 2020 (post-COVID-19 era) at the same time in 2019 (second pre-COVID-19 era).ResultsThe nosocomial infection rate was 7.85% (54/688) in the first pre-COVID-19 era and 4.30% (26/605) in the COVID-19 era (P = 0.01). The respiratory system infection rate between the first pre-COVID-19 and COVID-19 eras was 6.1% vs. 2.0% (P < 0.01), while the urinary system infection rate was 1.7% vs. 2.0% (P = 0.84). Between the first pre-COVID-19 and COVID-19 eras, respiratory system and urinary infections accounted for 77.78% (42/54) vs. 46.15% (12/26) and 22.22% (12/54) vs. 46.15% (12/26) of the total nosocomial infections, respectively (P < 0.01). Between the second pre-COVID-19 and post-COVID-19 eras, respiratory system and urinary accounted for 53.66% (44/82) vs. 40.63% (39/96) and 24.39% (20/82) vs. 40.63% (39/96) of the total nosocomial infections, respectively (P = 0.02).ConclusionsThe incidence of nosocomial infections in neurosurgery reduced during the COVID-19 pandemic. The reduction was primarily observed in respiratory infections, while the proportion of urinary infections increased significantly.

지역사회간호학 교내실습 교육이 간호대학생의 자기주도학습, 핵심간호역량 및 감염관리 인지도에 미치는 효과

Objectives This study was to investigate effects of community health nursing in-school practice education on self-directed learning, core nursing competency, and infection control awareness of nursing school students. Methods This study was conducted a pre and post quasi experimental study for single-group with 109 students in the 4th grade of Nursing school at H University, located in G province. The in-school practice training lasted 90 hours for two weeks, in parallel with online and offline learnings such as online lectures, home visits, self-learning, face-to-face simulation practice, and core skill evaluation. Data were collected by online questionnaires, and data analysis was performed with the SPSS win 25.0 program and the corresponding sample T-test. Results It was found that the in-school practice education in community health nursing improved the self-directed learning(t=6.22, p=.000) and core nursing competency(t=6.89, p=.000) of nursing students. On the other hand, there was no significant difference in the infection control awareness(t=1.89, p=.062), but there was significant increase of the awareness of the hand hygiene(t=2.44, p=.016) and linen(t=2.69, p=.008) which were listed in the sub-category. Conclusions This study confirmed the positive effects of the in-school practice that integrates the online-learning and face-to-face simulation for community health nursing science while field clinical practice is limited due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In the future, it is necessary to develop more programs that include various contents embracing field practice and in-school practice adjusted with the characteristics of the local community and to study effective teaching methods.

Students’ knowledge, attitudes and practices related to infection control in undergraduate dental clinical training during COVID-19 A report from one South African university

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the need for renewed conversations in infection control in the context of dental undergraduate learning. This study set out to examine dental therapy and oral hygiene students’ knowledge, attitudes and practices related to infection control.This quantitative survey was conducted at one dental training site in South Africa. The study population comprised 156 full time enrolled students that was stratified into Year 1 (n=55), Year 2 (n=54) and Year 3 (n=47). An online, self-administered questionnaire with closed and open-ended questions was used to collect information. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25.0 (IBM Corp., USA) and thematic analysis. The response rate for the study was 70.5% (n=111).Almost all participants (n=104) strongly agreed/agreed that COVID-19 is transmitted mainly through infected droplets. Most participants (Year 1: n=24, 22.5%; Year 2: n=28, 26.2%; Year 3: 22, 31.2%) strongly disagreed / disagreed that younger people were less susceptible to contracting COVID-19 disease. While 23 first (21.5%) and 16 second-year students (14.9%) strongly agreed/agreed that personal protective gear was sufficient protection against COVID-19, about 16 third-year students (14%) were unsure or disagreed. Almost all participants (n=105, 98.1%) strongly agreed/agreed to washing or sanitizing their hands regularly. The emergent themes from qualitative data analysis included: better access to resources and more coordinated planning for clinical and classroom-based learning. There were inconsistencies in participants’ knowledge and attitudes towards infection control. There is a need for ongoing awareness of infection control in both clinical and class-room based learning.