New Survey of Clinicians Reveals Key Barriers to Effective Infection Prevention

“Human Factors and the Future of Infection Prevention” uncovers challenges, optimism about preventing healthcare-associated infections

New survey from 3M uncovers challenges and optimism about preventing healthcare-associated infections (HAI). (Graphic: Business Wire)

ST. PAUL, Minn.--()--A recent survey of infection preventionists found that half (51 percent) believe lack of adopting new technology and processes and insufficient support from senior leadership are the top barriers to preventing healthcare-associated infections (HAI), followed closely by poor protocol compliance rates.

Six hundred and fifty U.S. infection preventionists and clinicians responded to the survey, “Human Factors and the Future of Infection Prevention,” commissioned by 3M and conducted by a third-party research firm in April 2018.

Despite the barriers, clinicians surveyed were optimistic about their ability to improve infection rates. One-third believed infections can be avoided when providing healthcare. Survey data also indicated these clinicians are seeking technological advances that will help them reduce preventable infections.

“At 3M, we are on a mission to partner with clinicians to take on preventable infections,” said Pat Parks, MD, PhD, Medical Director, 3M Medical Solutions Division. “We wanted to gain a better understanding of beliefs and perceptions clinicians hold about the current reality and future potential of infection prevention. Armed with these insights, we’re convening with critical stakeholders to support clinicians in their fight against HAI.”

3M is hosting a series of infection prevention educational events, starting with a webinar on July 11, 2018, to discuss in more depth the barriers to infection prevention revealed in the survey. Visit 3M.com/IPSurveyWebinar to register. Upcoming educational events will reveal survey findings on clinicians’ attitudes and beliefs about infection prevention trends, best practices, compliance, auditing, and training.

About 3M

At 3M, we apply science in collaborative ways to improve lives daily. With $32 billion in sales, our 91,000 employees connect with customers all around the world. Learn more about 3M’s creative solutions to the world’s problems at www.3M.com or on Twitter @3M or @3MNews.

Contacts

3M
Nan Farnsworth Drews, 651-733-5747
nfarnsworth@mmm.com
or
Inprela Communications
Lacey Poppe, 612-677-2026
lacey@inprela.com

Release Summary

A new survey on infection prevention trends, commissioned by 3M, found top barriers to preventing healthcare-associated infections.

Contacts

3M
Nan Farnsworth Drews, 651-733-5747
nfarnsworth@mmm.com
or
Inprela Communications
Lacey Poppe, 612-677-2026
lacey@inprela.com