A qualitative content analysis of interviews with 19 infection preventionists at hospitals revealed four broad challenges, according to the study:
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1. Expanding responsibilities outstrip resources.
2. Shifting role boundaries create uncertainty.
3. Evolving mechanisms of influence involve trade-offs. For example, infection preventionists recognize the benefits of their expanding role, but identify limited authority over staff, according to a presentation on the study presented by the lead author in a doctoral research seminar.
4. The stress of constant change is compounded by chronic recurring challenges.
The authors suggest three strategies to support infection preventionists as their role evolves:
1. Advance implementation science.
2. Standardize data.
3. Provide leadership training.
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