A comparison of the factors which influence

infection control in paediatric wards

in England and Thailand.

Susheewa Wichaikull, Prof. Judith Tanner and Prof. Denis Anthony

Background: Hospital acquired infections present a

real problem for patients. Five to ten percent of
patients in developed countries develop on infection
while this increases between two to twenty times for
patients in developing countries. Paediatric patients,
especially high-risk neonates and infants, are at a high
risk of infection because of their vulnerability.

Methods: The purpose of this study was to explore the factors which contribute to the
spread of infection among children in paediatric wards in England and Thailand using an
ethnographic approach. Ten nurses in England and ten nurses in Thailand were recruited
using purposive sampling. Participant observation and interviews were carried out to obtain
data in clinical settings. Data from the observations and interviews were transcribed and
coded using thematic content analysis.

Will kissing your child

transfer infectious germs?

Results: Children hospitals in Thailand and

England face similar infection control problems,
especially poor hand hygiene. Important factors
include attitude and beliefs. Training and advice
can raise perceptions and promote good practice.
However, in terms of different cultures and
circumstances, the key factors affecting compli-
ance between the two countries are resources,
lifestyle, and religion.

Conclusion: Even within the same hospital, different cultures results in different factors
which impact on paediatric patients. Personal concern for infection control practice is the most
significant factor influencing compliance.

References
1. Filetoth, Z. 2003. Hospital -Acquired Infection.Whurr Publishers Ltd.London.
2. http://www.denverhealth.org/portal/Portals/0/images/women_children/doctor_child.jpg
3. http://www.workingnurse.com/images/articles/big/webiStock_000000581479Medi.jpg

Contact susheewa@gmail.com