A multi-modal approach to promoting hand hygiene to reduce hospital acquired infection: A change management proposal for an intensive care unit

Abstract

Aim: Using evidence from a previous literature review, a proposed plan was developed to promote hand hygiene and reduce the prevalence of hospital-acquired infections within an intensive care unit in the North-West of England.

Methodology: The RE-AIM framework structured the implementation of the proposed plan with Lewin’s force field theory applied. The proposed plan was peer-reviewed for feedback on the change management plan. Finally, Gibbs’s model was used to reflect on the lead author’s independent learning journey undertaking a 3-year degree programme in adult nursing to reflect and identify opportunities for future development.

Results: A multimodal change plan was developed with guidance from the evidence and identified themes. The peer review process highlighted areas for improvement and provided valuable feedback. The reflective process identified opportunities for professional development and developing nurse leadership skills.

Discussion: The proposed plan was based on three hand hygiene themes identified in a previous literature review; education and understanding, direct observation, and reminders/ prompts. The change management phase highlighted important barriers to be addressed for the proposal to be successful. The peer review process facilitated innovative ideas and reflecting on the feedback given. The improvement process reinforced a need to listen to feedback throughout the negotiated change.

Conclusion: A proposed plan focused on hand hygiene and healthcare acquired infections offers valuable insights related to change management plans in nursing.