TITLE:
Persistence of Healthcare-Associated (Nosocomial) Infections Due to Inadequate Hand Hygiene: Part 2—Human Factors
AUTHORS:
Robert B. Raffa, Joseph V. Pergolizzi, Robert Taylor, Sanjib Choudhuri, Robert Rodenbeck
KEYWORDS:
Infection, Nosocomial, Hospital, Healthcare-Associated, Hygiene, Handwashing
JOURNAL NAME:
Pharmacology & Pharmacy,
Vol.9 No.8,
August
10,
2018
ABSTRACT: A healthcare-associated infection (defined as an
infection acquired within a healthcare facility), such as due to transmission via medical equipment or by healthcare
providers is the most frequent adverse event in the healthcare delivery system. But
why does the problem persist, when infection control measures are known,
simple, and low-cost? We reviewed some biological- and treatment-factors in
Part 1, and we now review some human-factors. Healthcare-associated
infections are a major public health problem even in advanced healthcare
systems. They affect hundreds of millions of patients each year, and are
responsible for increased morbidity, mortality, and financial burden. This is
perplexing, since good-hygiene practices are known and promoted. Disinfection,
sterilization, handwashing, and alcohol rubs should be more effective, but
human-factors interfere. The persistent high prevalence of nosocomial
infections, despite known hygienic practices, is attributable to two categories
of factors: biological and inherent shortcomings of some practices (considered
in Part 1), and human factors (considered here). A new approach is considered
in Part 3.