Characteristics of personal protective equipment training programs in Australia and New Zealand hospitals: A survey

Abstract

Background: Using personal protective equipment (PPE) is one of several fundamental measures to prevent the transmission of infection and infectious diseases and is particularly pertinent in the current COVID-19 pandemic. Appropriate use of PPE by healthcare workers is, however, often suboptimal. Training and monitoring of PPE competency are essential components of an infection prevention and control program but there is a paucity of research and data on the content of such training programs across Australasia. This paper reports the results of a survey that characterised the nature of PPE training in Australian and New Zealand hospitals. Methods: A population-based online survey was distributed to members of three major Australasian colleges representing infection prevention and control. Results: Results indicate that, although training is frequently provided at orientation, many healthcare workers do not receive regular updates. Training programmes combine online and classroom sessions, but over a third do not include a practical component. The frequency of monitoring PPE competency is variable with one third of respondents indicating that no auditing occurs. PPE items used for high-level training are variable, with use of powered air purifying respirators (PAPRs) uncommon. Conclusion: The results of this study suggest that HCWs' confidence, competence and familiarity with PPE are a concern, which in the context of the current global COVID-19 pandemic is

Education and training in infection prevention and control: Exploring support for national standards

“…Data from Sections 1 and 4 of the survey, along with the ‘other comments’ box is reported below. Results from Sections and 2 and 3 have been previously reported [ 19 ].…”

“…The survey tool has been previously described in detail [ 19 ]; it comprised four sections. Section 1 gathered data about respondents' roles in, and characteristics of, the facility/organisation in which they worked.…”

“…The frequency and content of PPE education and monitoring in Australasian hospitals vary [ 19 ]; standardisation would improve staff and patient safety. There is limited published research or information, on the perspectives of IPC professionals about nationally consistent IPC/PPE training and standardisation programmes.…”

“…This paper presents an analysis of responses to open-ended questions and free comments from a survey on PPE training programmes within healthcare facilities in Australasia [ 19 ]. These questions aimed to seek participants’ views about possible nationally consistent PPE training and standards, and the profile of IPC, to inform future stakeholder consultations on national IPC standards in healthcare.…”

State of Personal Protective Equipment Practice in Indian Intensive Care Units amidst COVID-19 Pandemic: A Nationwide Survey

“… 17 While PPE provides immediate physical and psychological safety to the HCWs, incorporation of engineering and administrative solutions will aid in bringing in an enduring culture of safety in health systems, thereby improving HCW morale and well-being. 18 , 19 …”