Factors contributing to the transmission of selected infections : klebsiella species in Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Thelle Mogoerane Regional Hospital, Gauteng Province, South Africa

Abstract

Background: Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs) are regarded as a specialized area in any hospital and are extremely risky wards which are more likely to spread transmissions. Moreover, neonates get easily infected as a result of their developing immune systems. This occurs because they are various types of infections which are likely to suppress their undeveloped immune system. The National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) reported that eleven neonates were infected with Klebsiella infections at a university-affiliated hospital in Gauteng Province. Cross- transmission via the hands of healthcare workers was also the likely source of an outbreak of Klebsiella infections in the NICU. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine the factors contributing to the transmission of selected infections: Klebsiella species in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Thelle Mogoerane Regional Hospital, Gauteng Province, South Africa. Research method: A quantitative cross-sectional, descriptive design was used, and data were collected using self-developed close- ended questionnaires. Fifty-five nurses working in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit constituted the sample and completed and submitted the questionnaires. The researcher piloted the questionnaires at various hospitals in Gauteng province to ensure the validity and reliability of the data. Data were dissected by applying SPSS version 28.0 with the aid of a University biostatistician and presented in tables and graphs. Turfloop Research Ethics Committee gave ethical clearance and the Gauteng Department of Health was permitted to conduct the study at TMRH. Ethical standards were adhered to throughout the study. Results. The study revealed that health workers still need experience in the execution of Infection Prevention Control (IPC) measures which could be associated with the cause of increased Klebsiella infection in NICU. Thus, a knowledge deficit in the management of infections could be attributed to a lack of education and training. The study also found that there are inconsistencies in the availability of material resources such as linen and that pose a risk in the delivery of standard infection prevention and control protocol. Recommendations: The unit infection control team should ensure the proper management, evaluation, and regulation of the spread of Klebsiella infection. All healthcare workers in NICUs are ought to be workshopped or be in-service trained at regular intervals. Thus, this training should focus mainly on the prevention of Klebsiella infections. Therefore, to avoid human error the Department of Health is also advised to appoint and increase the number of newly qualified health workers. It is also recommended that the Department of Health appoint sufficient staff including retired nurses if the need arises.