Assessing the Role of Respiratory Therapists in Implementing Infection Control Measures in Intensive Care Units: A Cross-Sectional Study

Authors: Faisal G. Alenazi, Salha A. Alzayer, Majed A. Alsahali, Ahmed A. Alanazi, Abdulaziz S. Alaws

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.13682124

Short DOI: https://doi.org/gt9jkm

Country: Saudi Arabia

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Abstract: Background: Infection control is crucial in intensive care units (ICUs) to prevent healthcare-associated infections, particularly during respiratory procedures. This study explores the role of respiratory therapists (RTs) in implementing infection control measures in ICUs and identifies challenges they face.

Methods: A cross-sectional qualitative study was conducted with 20 RTs from a large tertiary hospital. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, focusing on experiences and perceptions related to infection control practices. Thematic analysis was used to identify key themes and sub-themes.

Findings: Key themes included the need for continuous education and training, challenges related to resource availability, the impact of high workload and stress, and the perceived effectiveness of infection control protocols. RTs reported a gap in ongoing training, difficulties with PPE and equipment availability, and the strain of high patient volumes affecting adherence to protocols. Despite these challenges, RTs found the protocols generally effective but stressed the need for practical adjustments.

Conclusion: Addressing the identified challenges could improve infection control practices in ICUs. Recommendations include enhancing continuous education programs, ensuring consistent PPE and resource availability, and optimizing protocols for practical application. These steps are essential for improving infection control and patient safety in critical care settings.

Keywords: Infection Control, Respiratory Therapists, Intensive Care Unit, PPE, Protocol Adherence, Healthcare-associated Infections, Qualitative Study

Paper Id: 231116

Published On: 2022-06-05

Published In: Volume 10, Issue 3, May-June 2022

Cite This: Assessing the Role of Respiratory Therapists in Implementing Infection Control Measures in Intensive Care Units: A Cross-Sectional Study - Faisal G. Alenazi, Salha A. Alzayer, Majed A. Alsahali, Ahmed A. Alanazi, Abdulaziz S. Alaws - IJIRMPS Volume 10, Issue 3, May-June 2022. DOI 10.5281/zenodo.13682124

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