Infection prevention control in practice: a survey of healthcare professionals' knowledge and experiences

Background

Laboratory experiments are crucial in understanding efficacy of disinfectant products, but without compliance and appropriate application, the effectiveness of products is compromised. This study aims to understand current perceptions and knowledge of healthcare professionals (HCPs) to common cleaning and disinfection routines and microbial contamination, including biofilms, in healthcare environments.

Methods

An online survey, including open and closed questions, was developed. Non-probability convenience and purposive sampling were used: those currently or previously in a healthcare profession were eligible. Survey responses were taken over 24 months, including the COVID-19 pandemic.

Discussion

137 participants completed the survey; over 50% were nurses. Surface cleaning frequency increased post COVID-19 from ‘twice a day’ to ‘three/more times a day’. Disinfection frequency reduced from ‘between every patient’ before COVID-19 to ‘twice a day’ afterwards. A multimethod approach to cleaning and disinfection (70.8%) was predominant when considering the best method to deliver infection control. Most areas of clinical settings were identified as high risk (13/19). Most (87.6%) participants had heard the term ‘biofilm’, mainly at conference/study days (60%). 39.1% said they were aware of dry surface biofilms (DSB) in the healthcare environment.

Conclusions

There remain mixed views on surface cleaning and disinfection within healthcare. Education is important for understanding microbial contamination and tackling problems. More people than expected had heard the term DSB. Infection control practices seemed consistent across responses, however whether this is reality is unknown. This study provides an initial insight into current opinions/knowledge of HCPs and can form basis for further in-depth investigation.