Findings from this study demonstrate that the nurses' approach to applying infection control precautions in the clinical setting was inconsistent. Infection control nurses in each of the six hospitals viewed the handwashing technique of nursing staff as poor, with insufficient time allowed for the procedure. The seriousness of this finding was reinforced by a study on compliance with treatment by patients undergoing isolation nursing. ICLNs act as a link between the ward, the infection control staff and the hospital manager. In view of the results obtained from this study, several recommendations are made.
Special emphasis is placed on the importance of commitment and compliance from staff.
First, infection control departments should review their current infection control policies and procedures and should establish specific thresholds for compliance with these measures. It is also recommended that a programme of remedial action be introduced which is based on the results of a regular audit programme. Infection control departments have a clear responsibility to provide staff in clinical areas with information on infection control policies and procedures. It is imperative that clinical staff are made aware of the existence of such policies and procedures. Second, if prevention and control of infection is to be achieved, appropriate strategies must be integrated into nursing practice.