Understanding patient and healthcare worker experiences and perspectives of multidrug-resistant organisms

Objectives Transmission of MDR organisms (MROs) such as carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae (CPE) and VRE in healthcare facilities is a major issue globally. Knowledge gaps exist, including the impact of these microorganisms on patients, and healthcare worker understanding of infection control approaches for MROs. This study aimed to explore patient and healthcare worker experiences and perspectives of MROs. Methods A sequential exploratory mixed-methods study was performed at a large metropolitan acute and subacute hospital. This involved semi-structured face-to-face interviews with patients with confirmed MROs to explore their understanding of these microorganisms and perceptions of their time in hospital. Healthcare workers participated in an online survey about their understanding of MROs and the care of patients with these microorganisms. Qualitative data were analysed using the COM-B framework, and were triangulated with the descriptive quantitative analysis. Results The overarching theme from the triangulated data was uncertainty amongst both patients and staff about MROs. Insufficient explanations from staff left patients lacking a proper understanding of their diagnosis, and patients felt that staff did not always follow isolation protocols. Staff felt they did not receive enough education on MROs. However, patients felt that the overall care they received was very good, and most valued the privacy gained from being in isolation. Conclusions This study demonstrates that there is a need to focus on new strategies of communication with patients and staff education to improve understanding of MROs and increase adherence to protocols.