When implementing a multimodal strategy (or bundle) for hand hygiene, the infection preventionist should first assess barriers to compliance before implementing solutions.
Step-by-Step Justification:
* Understanding Barriers First:
* Identifying barriers (e.g., lack of access to sinks, high workload, or poor compliance culture) is critical for effective intervention.
* APIC Guidelines on Hand Hygiene Improvement:
* Strategies must be tailored based on the institution's specific challenges.
* Why Other Options Are Incorrect:
* A. Signage for hand hygiene reminders:
* Signage alone is insufficient without addressing systemic barriers.
* B. Cost-effectiveness of hand hygiene products:
* While important, cost analysis comes after identifying compliance barriers.
* C. Availability of gloves in the patient care area:
* Gloves do not replace hand hygiene and may lead to lower compliance.
CBIC Infection Control References:
* APIC/JCR Workbook, "Hand Hygiene Compliance and Institutional Barriers".
* APIC Text, "Hand Hygiene Improvement Strategies".