Factors influencing the self-perceived practice levels of professional standard competency among infection control nurses in Korea

Abstract

Background: This study investigated the self-perceived infection control (IC) knowledge and practice levels of professional standards competency (PSC) among Korean infection control nurses (ICNs) to identify factors that may influence PSC.

Methods: Using a self-reporting questionnaire method, we collected data from a total of 104 ICNs.

Results: The average self-perceived IC knowledge level was 3.1 ± 0.8, with hand hygiene scoring the highest at 3.7 ± 0.8. The total proportion of responders who did not meet the expected standard in 4 future-oriented domains was 51.7%. Of the 4 domains, technology had the highest number of respondents meeting the desired standard (57%). There were significant differences in self-perceived levels of PSC in relation to ICN specialist certification and continuing education (eg, extra coursework, conference attendance) in the field. Self-perceived practice levels of PSC also were significantly correlated with age, years of total clinical experience, years of ICN experience, hospital bed count, and IC knowledge. Predictors of self-perceived practice levels of PSC were knowledge and years of ICN experience.

Conclusion: Educational programs are needed to promote knowledge and competency, the lack of which was recognized by the ICNs. Also, various efforts are needed to prevent turnover of ICNs with a high level of competency.

Keywords: Competence; Infection preventionist.