Mrs Grace E. Magani

Research project: A mixed methods investigation into the experiences of Infection Prevention and Control Link Champions in Care Homes

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has catapulted Infection prevention in residential care settings into the spotlight. Link champions, with special interest in the subject have been around for a long time under various names, in different countries and settings across the globe. They are generally considered to be part of the infection prevention and control workforce. The role is gaining popularity as a means of improving infection prevention and control for COVID-19 response and other infections. Care home residents are known to be more susceptible to infections; but little is known about the availability of link champions across these settings. Information on perception of their roles, challenges or support available to them is also lacking.  

A mixed-methods design

-       To explore their role, challenges faced and factors which facilitate success - Interviews

-       To find out the numbers and designations of link champions; and support available for them in various care homes - Survey

Findings will be used to generate a report on the implementation of Infection Prevention and Control Link champion role in care homes, with recommendations for enhancing practice.