Aim:
Meaningful research creates evidence for Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) practice. The aim of this study was to establish Infection Prevention Society (IPS) members research priorities to support future projects.
Methods:
This research used a mixed methods convergent parallel design incorporating a cross-sectional survey of IPS Society members (2022 - 2023), and focus-group findings from the IPS Consultative Committee in (October 2022). Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics. Qualitative data were transcribed verbatim, entered into NVivo 12, and analysed by two researchers using a thematic analysis approach.
Results:
132 IPS members responded to the survey, with 120 (90.9%) nurses. 56.8% of respondents had >10 years IPC experience (n=75) and identified as working in a senior management role (n=75, 56.8%). Most respondents worked in secondary care (n=45, 28.1%). England was the most represented country, with 107 respondents (81.1%). The three most prevalent priorities were: Quality Improvement and Patient Safety (n=84,16.1%); IPC Training and Education (n=77,14.8%); and IPC evidence-based guidelines (n=76,14.6%).
20 focus group participants provided a broad range of experienced multidisciplinary contributors. Analysis of the focus group transcript identified three dominant themes: IPC Role and Identity, IPC Research Development and Patient Centered Care. Other relevant themes were; Training and Education, Leadership and Clinical Practice.
Triangulation of findings demonstrated concordance between quantitative and qualitative findings however, the qualitative focused more on generic challenges and supports for research opposed to topic specific aims.
Conclusion:
The breath of IPC practice lends itself to many competing challenges and demands. This research demonstrates the need to explore and understand the multidisciplinary IPC Role and Identity, develop supports and integration of Research Development and, embedding of IPC actions routinely in Patient Centered Care. This will guide research to support development of IPC, quality improvement and patient safety.