This particular question is always challenging for me to answer, as I do not have a good recommendation on how to increase compliance with IPAC practices. I have always adhered to IPAC practices, particularly when I joined as a new graduate nurse during the pandemic. I truly value hand hygiene, PPE, and adherence to patient precautions for patients, staff, family, and my health. The only time I had to be non-compliant was when we had to reuse our gowns for each patient we were assigned to, due to insufficient gowns. Something I do wish and spoken with my unit manager about before is our gown types. I have mentioned to her how some of the gowns are very thick and sometimes not even washed and dried well, causing me to have some itchiness. And to prevent itchiness, I would always wear a long-sleeved shirt or jacket so that the gown would not touch my skin directly. It would’ve been nice to have thin and disposable gowns, but I am aware that this is not good for the environment, as it will increase healthcare waste. I am leaning more toward educating staff and patients and reminding them of the importance of IPAC practices.

I have always ensured I comply with IPAC practices in my work environment after risk assessments. I would like to make it a good habit that I continue to do so until this practice comes second nature to me. On top of every benefit that comes with following proper IPAC measures, nurses should remember that their licenses are on the line and consequences can have a long term effect not only on their health status but also career wise. Having workshops every so often that reminds the staff this can increase compliance with these measures.

When it comes to adhering to IPAC standards I usually ensure complete compliance however, there have been situations where I have had to cut through and utilize shortcuts. Before practicing as a Registered Practical Nurse I used to think that IPAC practices were basic and easy to follow but due to understaffed shifts I have realized just how much of a challenge it is. An example that I can think of is not utilizing the proper personal protective equipment. There have been scenes where I have don/doffed PPE incorrectly due to the pressure of time and the high turnover rate at my facility. I understand that improper PPE can lead to cross-contamination however, during stressful times It has completely gone over my head. I often forget that wearing rings or even nail polish can also harbor bacteria. To ensure an increase in compliance with IPAC practices I would recommend regular training courses to ensure ongoing education but also to refresh staff with IPAC practices. Just like how CPR training is performed annually, I believe IPAC refresher courses should also be required. I also believe that the reporting system may need to be changed to report staff or to report concerns. In allowing staff to feel safe and comfortable to report themselves or even others I think that the reporting system should be more welcoming.

I have not always followed my agencies IPAC guidelines.
An example would be on a night shift while completing my rounds and not using for PPE for contact Precaution .
On night rounds I would sneak into a patient’s room while they were sleeping to do a quick visual assessment and may not don all the required PPE. I have been reminded after reading the article from this weeks reading of the impact that HAI ( Hospital Acquired Infection ) have on our health care system and how it affects patient outcomes.
I would like to work with my centre to update our posters around ABHR dispensers to help with proper use of hand hygiene to help promote proper use for staff and public.
Jessica