American journal of critical care : an official publication, American Association of Critical-Care Nurses
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Although hand hygiene is the most effective measure for preventing cross-infection, overall compliance is poor among health care workers. ⋯ Neither having good theoretical knowledge of hand hygiene guidelines nor social influence or moral perceptions had any predictive value relative to hand hygiene practice. A valid questionnaire to identify predictors and determinants of noncompliance with hand hygiene has been designed. Nurses reporting a poor self-efficacy or a poor attitude toward time-related barriers appear to be less compliant.
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Comparative Study
Current practice in airway management: A descriptive evaluation.
Ventilator-associated pneumonia, a common complication of mechanical ventilation, could be reduced if health care workers implemented evidence-based practices that decrease the risk for this complication. ⋯ Nurses and respiratory therapists differed significantly in the management of patients receiving mechanical ventilation. To reduce the risk of ventilator-associated pneumonia, both nurses and respiratory therapists must be consistent in using best practices when managing patients treated with mechanical ventilation.
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Ventilator-associated pneumonia is a major threat to patients receiving mechanical ventilation in hospitals. Oral care is a nursing intervention that may help prevent ventilator-associated pneumonia. ⋯ Survey results indicate that discrepancies exist between reported practices and policies. Oral care policies appear to be present, but not well used.