By Healthcare Facilities Today

A new study finds patients placed in contact isolation (contact precautions) were twice as likely to report perceived problems with care compared to patients without isolation, placing the common infection control practice at odds with hospital interests according to an article on the NewsFix website.

Contact isolation is routinely used to prevent the spread of drug-resistant bacteria between healthcare workers and patients. Healthcare workers are required to use disposable gowns and gloves for all patient contact.

“As public reporting of patient satisfaction and patient outcomes becomes a national priority linked to hospital reimbursement, this study provides insight into how healthcare workers must balance evidence-based practice with a focus on patient satisfaction,” said Preeti Mehrotra, MD, lead author on the study in the October issue of Infection Control and Hospital Epidemiology. 

The study suggested procesures should be developed to ensure that all patients receive the same quality of care. This includes staff education to ensure more patient visits and education to help patients understand the reasons for the isolation. 

Read the article.