Mrs Star Okoro1
1Townsville Hospital And Health Service, Douglas, Australia
Biography:
Star Okoro is an IPC Clinical Nurse at the Townsville Hospital and Health Service with over 17 years of nursing experience across Australia and internationally. Since 2015, she has specialised in infection prevention and public health, including contributing to South Australia's COVID-19 response through the Communicable Diseases Control Branch.
Abstract:
Issue
Vaccine hesitancy remains a significant barrier to optimal immunisation uptake, with hospital admissions offering a unique but underutilised opportunity. Some clinicians also lack structured approaches to effectively communicate with hesitant patients and translate intent into action, leading to low immunisation rates.
Methods
Systematic screening of vaccination status during hospital stays;
Staff training on person-centred evidence-based communication techniques, including motivational interviewing and presumptive recommendations;
Streamlined bedside vaccine delivery with immediate vaccination after conversation.
Data on vaccine usage and patient acceptance rates were analysed along with clinician feedback on the feasibility of the process and their confidence in vaccine discussions.
Results
Clinicians reported increased confidence in addressing hesitancy and valued the ability to provide immunisation immediately after discussion. Patients who received presumptive recommendations or engaged in structured, empathetic conversations were more willing to accept vaccinations.
Lessons learned
Staff training on vaccine conversations and addressing hesitancy proved essential. This is often lacking in standard
immunisation
education and does not come naturally to some clinicians. This skill also benefited the staff vaccination program.
The impacts of effective
immunisation
conversations extended beyond the patient to their support networks, with caregivers noted to inquire about vaccinations for themselves.
Conclusion
Hospital admissions present a critical window for translating conversations into action. By combining effective communication strategies with accessible inpatient vaccination pathways, we reduced missed opportunities and improved immunisation coverage. Embedding these approaches into routine care has the potential to normalise vaccine discussions, strengthen preventive health delivery and decrease infectious outbreaks in acute care settings.