Development of blueprint materials that strengthen and embed the infection control link nurse role in hospitals - an action research study.

backgroundIn hospitals, infection control link nurses (ICLNs) serve as a bridge between their peers and the infection prevention team, driving infection prevention measures through motivation, practical guidance, and knowledge sharing. The success of the ICLN role varies depending on how well it is supported and integrated into hospital structures. In this study, we co-created materials for infection control practitioners (ICPs), incorporating activities to support ICLNs with strategies to strengthen and embed the ICLN role in hospitals. We aimed to develop materials to support and implement the role, and evaluated how cocreation contributed to its normalization in participating hospitals.

methodsWe used an action research approach with co-creation as a general guiding principle. Stakeholders and end-users from ten participating hospitals collaboratively developed blueprint materials, including a role description, training resources and strategies for hospital-wide integration of the ICLN role. ICPs tested these materials in their respective hospitals. To explore their experiences with both the application of materials and the collaborative process, focus group interviews were conducted. Normalization Process Theory (NPT) was used as a framework to guide the analyses and the collaborative process itself.

resultsParticipants agreed upon the materials, but the extend to which their content became normalized in daily practice varied. In the interviews, ICPs mentioned that adoption and application of the materials depended on the implementation phase of the ICLN role. The collaborative process increased their confidence and intention to actively support ICLNs. It also helped them reflect on how to position the role within the organization, prompting them to consider various actions to embed the role structurally. Blueprint materials were considered helpful and provided practical strategies and hands-on activities and could be tailored to the local context.

conclusionsThe collaborative process resulted in three practical, adaptable blueprint materials. The process helped ICPs reassess their own role in implementing the ICLN role, refine their training strategies, and strengthen their support for ICLNs at the ward level. Signs of normalization of the ICLN role varied across hospitals, influenced by both the stage of implementation and how ICPs interpreted and enacted their own role.