As part of the IMAGINE Project’s ongoing efforts to combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and improve infection control practices in nursing homes, we are excited to share the positive feedback from healthcare professionals (HCPs) who participated in the recent intervention workshops in Poland on October 10th-11th. These sessions were designed to enhance the skills and knowledge of HCPs, particularly in managing common infections such as urinary tract infections (UTIs).
Participant Testimonials
Zofia Gumieniak, Nurse, Fundacja Osób Społecznie Aktywnych F.O.S.A. (Foundation for Socially Active People F.O.S.A.)
“Good morning, I’m reading question number one: What are your expectations regarding the project? I think one of my expectations is that there will be many speakers who will raise awareness about the issue of infections in nursing homes, and they would show us how to prevent them? How to handle these challenging situations with patients who don’t always communicate with the staff? Looking back now, I think it went very well. The lecturers made us realize the crucial role we, as staff members, play in solving these problems, not just within the project but in addressing these issues in general. Overall, I am very satisfied. It has expanded my knowledge. It’s a fantastic project, thank you. Thank you very much.”
Dorota Janicka, Director of the nursing home, Dom Pomocy Społecznej w Ozorkowie (Nursing Home in Ozorkow)
“What do you expect from this project? So, I came to this conference with the expectation that, well, I would receive a handful of information that would influence my work at the care facility simply to expand the knowledge of both the staff and even the residents, who are sometimes interested in topics related to this. And since the conference went wonderfully, I think that the organizers did an excellent job by providing us with so much information and making us realize that the work we’re already doing is truly of a high standard. I feel that both the workshops and discussions held during this conference met my expectations and those of the staff. And that’s about it, I would say, because our expectations included, among other things, catheter insertion for individuals who have a permanent catheter, and the workshops led by the ladies from the Medical University were truly professional, allowing us to observe everything closely. It was simply about better preparing ourselves for our activities directed toward prevention, and it was conducted excellently. It really met our expectations. It was similar with the workshops, which were led by doctor and Ms. Ania. The myths highlighted made us realize that certain things should not be done, some things can be done, but one must always remember hygiene – particularly hand hygiene. Hand hygiene is most important to us, as most bacteria are found on our hands, and following this principle will ensure that we no longer feel uninformed. The workshops provided us with a lot of knowledge that we will use in our work.”
Elżbieta Olczyk Jurek, Head of the Therapeutic and Care Department – II ward, 5 Dom Pomocy Społecznej im. prof. dr hab. med. Jadwigi Szustrowej w Łodzi (5th Nursing Home named after Prof. Dr. Hab. Med. Jadwiga Szustrowa in Lodz)
“My expectacions are primarily that we use antibiotics less frequently, to check whether there is actually a valid reason for it. Is there a need to use it? And thanks to the tools that were presented in the workshops, we will be able to think more carefully about whether all these criteria are actually met. Is there a valid reason for it?”
Jolanta Kałucka, Director of the nursing home, Dom Pomocy Społecznej w Zborowie
“The IMAGINE project has greatly interested us. I received information from Ms. Ania regarding the topic because I am a nurse by profession. Currently, I am the director of a facility dealing with individuals with intellectual disabilities. The issue of catheterization and urinary tract infections may occur. It is not a common issue, but it does happen. So, I felt that participating in the project would be very appropriate, as it would allow us to improve the skills, knowledge, and competence of our staff. Consequently, we joined the project enthusiastically. We also conducted a preliminary review of our resources, and our participation in the initial phase allowed us to check if we have the necessary disinfectants, if we are properly equipped with tools and supplies, and whether the staff is following procedures correctly, in terms of disinfection and preparation for individual medical procedures. I also noticed some irregularities that may have previously gone unnoticed. However, conducting this initial survey made these issues visible and apparent. Moreover, I believe the next phase—education—will help us follow procedures in a way that effectively prevents infections. After all, our top priority is the well-being of our patient-resident and, of course, also the well-being of our staff, because an improperly trained and unprepared employee can spread infections within the home environment and does not act professionally. So, I hope that through the education of myself and the employees participating in the project, we will be able to expand the competencies of all our employees. I plan to later conduct training sessions for other staff members as well. To present the first phase of the project at our facility, then to implement the procedures that we learn here, since today’s topics will include the proper handling of catheters and catheter care. It is known that the information we currently have might be outdated, and the research will allow us to learn about new procedures and recommendations. So, I think that this is the most important element of this project for me.”
Context of the Workshops
The two-day intervention in Poland brought together HCPs from at least ten nursing homes to participate in a structured and interactive workshop. This initiative aimed to foster an environment of collaboration and learning, where participants could reflect on current practices and explore strategies for improvement. The focus was on discussing the results of the first audit, which was conducted as part of the IMAGINE Project’s comprehensive before-and-after study.
During these sessions, HCPs:
– Reviewed Audit Findings: Assessed current infection control measures and antibiotic prescribing trends. This feedback provided insights into existing practices and helped pinpoint areas for targeted improvements.
– Set Actionable Goals: Based on the audit data, expert recommendations, and the latest EU AMR Guidelines, aimed at enhancing IPC protocols and optimizing antibiotic use.
– Engaged in Expert-Led Training: On best practices for diagnosing and managing UTIs, as well as implementing effective infection prevention techniques.
– Accessed Educational Resources: On IPC and AMS, which were shared not only with HCPs but also with residents and their families, to promote a broader understanding of infection prevention within the nursing home community.
Why Poland’s Nursing Homes Matter in the Fight Against AMR
Nursing homes play a critical role in the health and well-being of some of the most vulnerable members of society. Residents in these facilities often face a heightened risk of infections, and the misuse of antibiotics can lead to the development of AMR, posing significant health risks. By focusing on IPC and AMS, the IMAGINE Project aims to implement lasting changes in the management of infections, not only reducing the burden of AMR but also improving the quality of care for nursing home residents.