Daniel Peter1, Michael Meng2, Christiane Kugler3, Frauke Mattner4. 1. Klinken der Stadt Köln gGmbH, Institute of Hospital Hygiene, Köln-Merheim, Hospital of the Private University of Witten/Herdecke, Cologne, Germany. Electronic address: peterd@kliniken-koeln.de. 2. Faculty of Health, Department of Nursing Science, Private University of Witten/Herdecke, Witten, Germany. 3. Faculty of Health, Department of Nursing Science, Private University of Witten/Herdecke, Witten, Germany; Faculty of Medicine, Freiburg University, Freiburg, Germany. 4. Klinken der Stadt Köln gGmbH, Institute of Hospital Hygiene, Köln-Merheim, Hospital of the Private University of Witten/Herdecke, Cologne, Germany.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Infection control link nurses (ICLNs) are important backup personnel for the prevention and control of infections in hospitals. To identify facilitators and barriers for the implementation of and long-term collaboration with ICLNs. METHODS: We conducted a systematic literature review, following the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses guidelines. Inclusion criteria were defined as description of de novo implementation of an ICLN system, strengthening of an existing ICLN system, or analysis of an ICLN system. RESULTS: In 10 publications, facilitators and barriers were identified for mode of selection of ICLN candidates, characteristics and responsibilities of ICLNs, composition of a training curriculum, educational strategies, and external influencing factors. Experienced nurses with an interest in infection control seemed appropriate candidates. The importance of psychological skills in addition to technical knowledge was emphasized. A clear definition of responsibilities was important. Viable tasks for ICLNs included surveillance and teaching activities and the implementation of prevention measures. Ongoing teaching was superior to a single course. Management support was pivotal for success. CONCLUSION: Research on ICLNs is scarce. The potential to decrease health care-associated infections with the help of ICLNs has been demonstrated. The training in psychological skills in addition to technical knowledge deserves more attention.
BACKGROUND: Infection control link nurses (ICLNs) are important backup personnel for the prevention and control of infections in hospitals. To identify facilitators and barriers for the implementation of and long-term collaboration with ICLNs. METHODS: We conducted a systematic literature review, following the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses guidelines. Inclusion criteria were defined as description of de novo implementation of an ICLN system, strengthening of an existing ICLN system, or analysis of an ICLN system. RESULTS: In 10 publications, facilitators and barriers were identified for mode of selection of ICLN candidates, characteristics and responsibilities of ICLNs, composition of a training curriculum, educational strategies, and external influencing factors. Experienced nurses with an interest in infection control seemed appropriate candidates. The importance of psychological skills in addition to technical knowledge was emphasized. A clear definition of responsibilities was important. Viable tasks for ICLNs included surveillance and teaching activities and the implementation of prevention measures. Ongoing teaching was superior to a single course. Management support was pivotal for success. CONCLUSION: Research on ICLNs is scarce. The potential to decrease health care-associated infections with the help of ICLNs has been demonstrated. The training in psychological skills in addition to technical knowledge deserves more attention.
Authors: Mireille Dekker; Rosa van Mansfeld; Christina Vandenbroucke-Grauls; Martine de Bruijne; Irene Jongerden Journal: Antimicrob Resist Infect Control Date: 2020-02-27 Impact factor: 4.887
Authors: Mireille Dekker; Rosa van Mansfeld; Christina Mje Vandenbroucke-Grauls; Tessa E Lauret; Bernadette Cfm Schutijser; Martine C de Bruijne; Irene P Jongerden Journal: J Infect Prev Date: 2022-02-18
Authors: Mireille Dekker; Irene P Jongerden; Rosa van Mansfeld; Johannes C F Ket; Suzanne D van der Werff; Christina M J E Vandenbroucke-Grauls; Martine C de Bruijne Journal: Antimicrob Resist Infect Control Date: 2019-01-28 Impact factor: 4.887