Strategy for Increasing Alcohol Gel Consumption Based on Realistic Simulation, Opinion of Healthcare Workers, Structure Adequacy and Change in Alcohol Product

Abstract

Background: Healthcare-related infections (HAIs) imply higher morbidity and mortality, length of hospitalization, and costs to institutions and the health system. An important practice for HAI control is hand hygiene. Due to the need for greater adherence to the practice of hand hygiene, as well as understanding about behavior and motivations related to actions associated with infection control, we conducted this study based on inquiry and intervention. Objectives: To describe the increase in adherence to hand hygiene through a multimodal strategy based on realistic simulation, inquiry, change of alcohol and training on actions related to infection control. Methods: In May 2018, a survey was administered to healthcare workers (HCW) regarding structure, process, and behavior related to hand hygiene. Training was also performed, which simulated a bed marked with GloGerm (later revealed with the application of black light), performing tasks by professionals, and completing a test. In November 2018, the structure of hand hygiene and points at which the alcoholic product was offered were redefined, and the alcohol-based product and its dispensers were exchanged. In December 2018, an educational campaign on hand hygiene and change disclosure was held. In February 2019, a new survey was applied to employees. Alcohol consumption was measured per patient day in the periods and compared with the historical average. Results: In the first application of the survey, 263 HCW reported dissatisfaction with hand hygiene structure (46% preferred water and soap). Most reported that training and structure would improve adherence. The training took place for 540 HCWs from many different professional positions. Alcohol gel consumption had a sustained increase from an average of 37 mL per patient day in the first semester to 49 mL per patient day in the second semester. After the product change and the new hand hygiene campaign, a second relevant and sustained increase has took place: the first 4-month average in 2019 was 67 mL per patient day. In the second survey, conducted with 187 HCWs, there was an increase in preference for alcohol-based product from a wall dispenser (from 38% to 62%).Funding: NoneDisclosures: None