Dr Carol Crevacore1, Dr Natasya Raja Azlan1, Dr Peta-Anne Zimmerman2,3,4, Associate Professor Mandy Towell- Barnard1,5, Dr Martina Costello1, Ms. Naila Zaman1, Ms. Weiting Liu1, Dr Seng Giap (Marcus) Ang1,6, Dr Aaron Lapuz Alejandro1, Dr Lesley Andrew1, Professor Debbie Massey1
1Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, Australia, 2Griffith University, Gold Coast, Australia, 3Infection Control Department, Gold Coast Health, Gold Coast, Australia, 4Collaborative for the Advancement of Infection Prevention and Control, Gold Coast, Australia, 5Centre for Nursing Research Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Nedlands, Australia, 6Clinical Services, Hollywood Private Hospital, Nedlands, Australia
Biography:
Peta-Anne Zimmerman is a seasoned expert in infection prevention and control (IPC) with over two decades of experience. Recognised as a Fellow of the Australasian College for Infection Prevention and Control, she has played a pivotal role in developing and implementing comprehensive IPC programmes across various healthcare settings. Peta-Anne's dedication to safeguarding patient and healthcare worker safety, and public health has led her to work closely with healthcare facilities, government agencies, and international organizations to combat infectious diseases and promote best practices in IPC. Her passion for innovation and continuous improvement has earned her recognition as a trusted authority in the field, influencing policies and shaping standards for IPC worldwide.
Abstract:
Introduction
The use of non-sterile gloves (NSG) for preparing and administering intravenous antibiotics (IVABs) is rising amongst nurses. Yet this practice can inhibit correct hand hygiene which increases healthcare associated infections. Inappropriate use of NSG may also impact on healthcare costs and healthcare provider’s sustainability and planetary health initiatives. Evidence based guidelines underlining the correct use of NSG have been developed however, how nurses use these guidelines in deciding whether to use NSG when preparing and administering IVABs is currently unknown. This lack of knowledge makes it challenging to develop targeted educational initiatives on correct NSG use.
Methods
A scoping review was undertaken to systematically map current literature and identify evidence about the correct use of NSG during IVAB preparation and administration.
Results
Only seven papers were found in the review. The World Health Organisation Guideline published in 2009 directly addressed appropriate NSG use in clinical practice, however, their use during IVAB administration was not stated. The themes that arose related to a lack of research-based evidence and alternative reasons for glove use.
Conclusion
Misuse of NSG during IVAB preparation and administration inhibits correct hand hygiene practices, is costly and negatively impacts planetary health. There is an urgent need for rigorous research to explore effective NSG use when managing IVABs. This knowledge will enable targeted educational initiatives to be implemented. Future research has the potential to inform the development of clear guidelines on NSG use, empowering evidence-based decision-making in nursing education, improving patient outcomes, and promoting environmental sustainability in healthcare.