Stéphane L Bouchoucha1, Jennie Livia Sangojoyo1,1,2, Mataya Kilpatrick1, Ana Hutchinson3
1 Deakin University Geelong, Australia, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Centre for Quality and Patient Safety Research in the Institute for Health Transformation, Australia
2 Olivia Newton-John Centre, Austin Health, Heidelberg, Melbourne
3 Deakin University Geelong, Australia, Centre for Quality and Patient Safety Research in the Institute for Health Transformation. Epworth Healthcare Partnership, Australia
, Australia
Background
Patient Service Assistants are an essential part of all health care settings, yet they often do not have a voice in research and their perspectives and understandings of their role about infection prevention and Control are rarely explored. The aim in this study was to explore haematology Personal Service Assistants’ experience, understanding and perceptions of their role in improving patient safety through environmental cleaning.
Methods
Data from cleaning staff was collected using a qualitative exploratory descriptive design and focus groups. Three semi-structured focus groups were conducted.
Results
Seven Patient Service Assistants participated in the study out of 11 employed on the ward. Two key themes emerged: (1) Playing a major role in Infection Prevention and Control, and (2) prioritising good interpersonal relationships over promoting infection prevention and control. Patient Service Assistants emphasised the importance of their involvement in keeping the ward clean, including patients’ rooms and surroundings, to prevent cross infection. Most participants underlined the dilemmas they faced when visitors and/or informal cleaning employees or casual ward staff did not adhere to ward infection prevention and control norms.
Conclusion
Patient Service Assistants were employing key infection prevention and control principles in their ward cleaning routine, with the aim of achieving a safer patient environment although they were reluctant to challenge observed practice deviations. The role of Patient Service Assistants highlights the widely held misconception that patient safety is solely dependent on healthcare workers.