IPS Infection Prevention Society Research Grant Final Report

Infection prevention and control (IPC) practice can help to reduce healthcare-associated infections (HCAIs) and assist in the fight against antimicrobial resistance (Review on Antimicrobial Resistance, 2016). It is essential, therefore, that all healthcare staff, including healthcare students, have the knowledge and understanding of IPC practices. Research indicates that more traditional IPC training approaches, such as key lectures, do not always translate into good IPC practice (Ward, 2011).
Healthcare professional students often learn clinical practice within a simulated environment, making learning more realistic through the use of scenario-based situations, role play and the use of manikins to practice care in low risk settings. In this instance, students tend to be more actively engaged in their learning. In theory, this increases the impact that learning has on clinical practice.