Infection Control Experiences and Educational Needs of Geriatric Care Workers in Long-Term Care Facilities: A Pilot Study

Abstract

Background: In the post-COVID-19 condition, infection control education is important for geriatric care workers who care for the elderly and are vulnerable to emerging infectious diseases. This study was conducted to enhance the insight into the experiences of geriatric care workers in managing novel infectious diseases (COVID-19) and to identify the newly required educational requirements necessary to effectively implement infectious disease control. Methods: This is a qualitative and pilot study using focus group interviews. Data from 10 participants were collected using a focus group interview. The data were analyzed using Qualitative content analysis. Results: The findings showed that geriatric healthcare workers experienced difficulties following infection control protocols and emotional distress related to visitor restrictions and had an increased workload. The participants requested further education regarding general knowledge of infectious diseases to decrease their fears of infection and reported that visual and practical teaching methods were preferable. Conclusions: Further attention is needed regarding the education of infection control to strengthen infection prevention in long-term care facilities vulnerable to the spread of emerging infectious diseases.