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Aurora

Abstract

Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) represent a significant threat to patient safety in hospital environments. These infections are often linked to lapses in infection prevention protocols, including inadequate hand hygiene, improper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and insufficient isolation procedures. This project aimed to evaluate compliance with infection control policies and identify areas for improvement at Lima Memorial Hospital. By focusing on auditing, education, and data analysis, the goal was to reduce HAI rates and strengthen overall infection prevention practices.

Methods included a comprehensive review of existing hospital infection prevention policies, followed by hand hygiene and PPE audits across the hospital’s second through sixth floors. Isolation (ISO) carts were also inspected to ensure appropriate PPE was available at the point of care. Educational handouts were distributed to staff, and in-person sessions were held to reinforce best practices. Additionally, during the fall 2024 influenza season, hospital employees were encouraged to document their vaccination status. A presentation on vaccine hesitancy was developed to promote awareness and improve vaccination uptake. Fourth-quarter data were analyzed to assess the correlation between compliance rates, vaccination status, and HAIs.

The results revealed a direct correlation between noncompliance with hygiene protocols and an increase in HAIs, including cases of Clostridium difficile, surgical site infections (SSIs), and catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs). In the final quarter of 2024, 7.5% of nurses failed to perform proper hand hygiene, also known as “gel in/gel out”, and 13.9% were found to be using improper or missing PPE. Despite these lapses, educational sessions saw a 96.2% participation rate among nursing staff. Influenza vaccination rates varied: 42.3% among associates, 81.6% among providers, and 95% among students, volunteers, and other hospital staff.

In conclusion, this study underscores the critical role of consistent hygiene practices, proper PPE use, and vaccine acceptance in preventing HAIs. While audits and educational initiatives improved staff awareness, continued efforts are needed to address gaps in compliance. Future recommendations include reinforcing education, making PPE more accessible, and expanding vaccine hesitancy interventions. These findings support the use of evidence-based, multidisciplinary approaches to infection prevention, with significant implications for public health policy and hospital practice.

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