Work

Patient-reported education regarding hand hygiene and use of non-sterile clinical gloves in an emergency department observation unit

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Patient education regarding hand hygiene (HH) and the correct use of nonsterile clinical gloves (NSCGs) are important parts of infection prevention and control. Unnecessary use of NSCGs can be harmful, causes costs and harms the environment. This study aimed to explore the health-care workers’ (HCWs) adherence to patient education regarding HH and the correct use of NSCGs in an observation unit. The data of this observational descriptive cross-sectional study was compiled from patients by questionnaire. They were asked about patient education received and the use of NSCSs by the HCWs. The correctness of NSCG use was then determined by the investigators based on standard precautions on infection prevention and control. Statistical analysis and qualitative content analysis were performed. The convenience sample consisted of 174 patients in an observation unit at Helsinki University Hospital and 600 care, examination or test procedures conducted for the patients. The response rate was 87%. Of the participating patients, 8.6% reported that they had received patient education on HH. There were 18 different procedures conducted for patients and out of them, the use of NSCGs was always correct within six procedures. Unnecessary use of NSCGs was found in varying degrees within nine procedures and insufficient use within three procedures. There was an association between a procedure conducted for the patient and the correct use of NSCGs (p < .001). Deviations from the standard precautions existed. Interventions for HCWs are needed to support routine patient education on HH and evidence-based use of NSCGs.

Source: Infection Prevention in Practice

DOI: 10.1016/j.infpip.2025.100501

Authors: Hanna-Leena Melender, Elina Koota, Katariina Kainulainen, Karoliina Aho, Marja Mäkinen, Johanna Kaartinen

Institutions: University of Helsinki, Helsinki University Hospital, University of Oulu

Language: English

Topic: Infection Control in Healthcare

Subfield: Infectious Diseases

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,500