Factors Influencing Self-reported Facial Protective Equipment adherence among Home Care Nurses and Personal Support Workers - A multi-site cross-sectional study

• Published in: American journal of infection control 2024-06
• Main Authors: King, Emily C, Van Belle, Travis A, Zagrodney, Katherine Ap, McKay, Sandra M, Giosa, Justine, Holubiec, Irene, Holness, D Linn, Nichol, Kathryn A
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 1527-3296

Facial Protective Equipment (FPE) use increased during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. This study explored factors influencing home care personal support workers' (PSWs) and nurses' self-reported adherence to FPE. A cross-sectional, electronic, survey was distributed to PSWs and nurses (1108 complete responses) at three home care agencies in Ontario, Canada, in May-June 2022. Descriptive, bivariate, and multivariable analysis were used to assess individual, environmental, and organizational factors influencing adherence. Among participants (786 PSWs, 322 nurses), 64% reported being adherent to both respiratory and eye FPE (Respiratory: 96%, Eye: 64%). Higher adherence was associated with facility-based work; better knowledge of FPE; pre-pandemic FPE use; good availability and convenient access; strong organizational support for health and safety; and Caribbean identity. Lower adherence was found for men; nurses with 2-year diplomas; shorter length of employment; communal transportation; and experiencing negative mental health effects from workplace infectious disease exposure. Agencies should prioritize increasing providers' knowledge of FPE, supporting mental well-being, fostering a supportive culture, and ensuring availability of FPE. The influences of gender, ethnicity, and role require further exploration. FPE adherence may be improved by addressing modifiable factors and developing population-specific strategies.