Pathogen Patrol – November 2024

Training programs focusing on straightforward, jargon-free language eliminate confusion and foster better comprehension of policies, safety protocols, and resident care requirements. Studies have found that an increase of 20% in hand hygiene rates, done through targeted education and availability, was found to reduce the prevalence of healthcare-acquired infections (HAI’s) by 40%*.

Clear communication makes staff members feel more engaged and empowered, which reduces errors and enhances compliance. Additionally, open lines of communication allow for questions and feedback, creating a supportive learning environment. By prioritizing clear, accessible training, long-term care facilities can strengthen staff readiness and consistency, ultimately improving the quality of care provided to residents.  

Timely training can act to introduce new best practices in infection prevention and control and fill any potential gaps in knowledge. In my experience, staff are eager to participate in educational sessions, especially when presented before respiratory outbreak season. Implementing a comprehensive hand hygiene program has been found to translate to 22 fewer deaths and cost savings of approximately 5 million dollars rates over 17 months**. Staff are all aware of how stressful an outbreak can be and want to be part of the solution. Through timely education, staff are given the knowledge and gain the confidence to trust in their training, bring up any concerns, as well as escalate issues that might arise. 

Incorporating updated guidelines and industry best practices into training materials keeps education relevant and staff informed about emerging risks, such as the newest COVID-19 Variant XEC, and improves prevention measures. Additionally, recognizing and rewarding improvements fosters a positive culture, motivating teams to stay vigilant and engaged. By establishing a cycle of assessment, feedback, and adaptation, LTC facilities can enhance both staff competency and safety, ultimately reducing the risk of outbreaks and building resilience across the organization. 

Supporting a culture of safety and accountability in facilities is essential for effective infection prevention. Leadership sets the tone by prioritizing safety, modelling proper practices, and fostering transparency. Infection prevention and control teams can only speak to best practices so much before they get diminishing returns, but timely education can act to reinforce these same principles to staff in a different environment. Clear, enforced protocols make expectations consistent, while non-punitive reporting systems encourage staff to speak up about risks or lapses without fear. Team-based goals and peer support promote mutual accountability, helping staff feel empowered to remind one another of safety practices. By continually learning from incidents and staying adaptable to new infection control guidelines, LTC facilities create a proactive environment where safety and accountability are ingrained.  

* McGeer, A. “Hand Hygiene by Habit”. Infection prevention: practical tips for physicians to improve hand hygiene. Ontario Medical Review, November 2007, 74.

** Sickbert-Bennett, E. E., DiBiase, L. M., Willis, T. M., Wolak, E. S., Weber, D. J., & Rutala, W. A. (2016). Reduction of Healthcare-Associated Infections by Exceeding High Compliance with Hand Hygiene Practices. Emerging Infectious Diseases, 22(9), 1628-1630. https://doi.org/10.3201/eid2209.151440.