Knowledge and understanding of patients and health care workers about multi-resistant organisms

Background

We have perceived a deficit in both patients’ and health care workers’ (HCWs) knowledge and understanding of multi-resistant organisms (MROs) which may influence care and compliance with infection control precautions. We aimed to explore the knowledge and understanding of patients and HCWs about MROs.

Methods

Between September 2011 and April 2012, a purposive sample of 19 newly identified and existing patients withMROs were recruited. A15 to 20 min taped interview was conducted and analysed to identifycommon themes. In addition, 55 HCWs completed a questionnaire to assess knowledge regarding MROs.

Results

Almost half (47%) of the patients reported they ‘know very little’ or ‘do not know anything’ about terms including MRO, MRSA and VRE. Patients reported they were not provided with sufficient explanation regarding colonisation or infection.While seeing single-roomaccommodation as an advantage, some felt like an ‘alien’ and were ‘lonely’. Precautionary measures used by HCWs were noted by patients but they were unaware of the reasoning behind them. HCWs (76%) explained the terms MRO, MRSA and VRE adequately. Only 36% of them adequately explained colonisation and infection. Only half of the RN and Medical Officer respondents informed patients about their MRO status. Explanation about the type of MRO, its spread, risk factors and preventative measures were the topics HCWs perceived as important to discuss with patients.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that patients’ knowledge of their MRO status is poor. Given the major role in educating patients, our study identified a deficit in HCWs’ knowledge regarding MROs. The information patients and HCWs perceived as important will assist in the development of future educational resources.