Effectiveness of human patient simulation education in improving infection control practices – A systematic review

Abstract

Background: Continuing education of healthcare personnel has been shown to play an essential role in infection control, associated with a sustained improvement in learning and clinical outcomes. However, the effectiveness of previous educational interventions in infection control is rather limited. Therefore, the aim of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness of human patient simulation (HPS) education in improving infection control practices on nursing continuing education.

Methods: A search strategy was conducted in eight multi-disciplinary databases and formulated in association with an information specialist (2003–2012). Two content and methodological experts selected the studies and assessed their quality independently. Only intervention studies, used alone or in conjunction with other educational interventions, were included in the review.

Results: Due to a lack of available studies, only one study was included in the final review. According to the results of that study, the use of patient biosimulator with a visual demonstration may have significant advantages in changing the behavior of healthcare personnel regarding infection control practices.

Conclusion: The effectiveness of HPS education in improving infection control practices on nursing continuing education is still uncertain due to the lack of published studies and robust evidence. There is a need for new, innovative educational intervention studies to educate, evaluate and improve knowledge, attitudes and performance regarding hand hygiene practices and invasive procedures.