Healthcare staff perceptions of an electronic hand hygiene monitoring system within a large university system

Abstract

Objective: The acceptability of an electronic HH monitoring system (EHHMS) was evaluated among hospital staff members. Design: An electronic HH monitoring system was implemented in June 2020 at a large, academic medical center. An interdisciplinary team developed a cross-sectional survey to gather staff perceptions of the EHHMS. Setting: The survey was conducted at a public, tertiary acute care hospital. Participants: The survey included current employees and staff. 1,273 participants responded. The mean age was 44.9 years (SD = 13.5). Most of the samples were female (71%) and non-Hispanic white (83%). Methods: A survey was conducted between June and July 2021. Responses were analyzed using Stata statistical software. Multiple logistic regression models were constructed to examine factors associated with negative perceptions of the EHHMS and its radiofrequency identification (RFID) badge. Supporting qualitative analyses were performed using Atlas.ti version 9. Results: Three-quarters (75%) of respondents reported neutral to negative perceptions of the EHHMS and its associated badge. Respondents reported limited influence on HH practices. Age, campus location, length of employment, job role, and opinion on data sharing were associated with negative perceptions of the EHHMS and RFID badge. Position in a direct patient care role was associated with negative perceptions of the RFID badge. Conclusions: Perceptions of the EHHMS aligned with previous research. Identified associations provide opportunities for targeted education, outreach, and intervention to increase acceptability and uptake. Lack of acceptance is explained by poorly perceived ease of use and usefulness, as well as challenges in implementation.