Enhancing the culture of infection control in veterinary practice: Glo germ trial
The occurrence of hospital acquired infections in the veterinary profession is an understudied area but is an acknowledged contributor to antimicrobial resistance. Following a roundtable of 40 small animal colleagues, a pledge was agreed to cultivate a workplace culture that values hygiene and cleanliness as integral to infection prevention.
The study aims to evaluate whether the product Glo Germ, a UV-reactive product that simulates germ transmission, and infection control education resources, improve team attitudes, behaviours, and compliance with Infection Control Protocols (ICP) in small animal primary care practice.
A cluster-randomised trial consisted of 60 practices allocated into three groups (control, low Intervention, high Intervention). All groups had a nominated practice lead (mostly Registered Veterinary Nurses (RVNs)) that completed monthly surveys over a 4-month period. The survey consisted of questions around ICP and an adapted Bella Moss Foundation Hygiene Self-Audit Tool. Low Intervention practices received passive access to infection control resources and high Intervention practices received Glo Germ kits, infection control resources, and active support via introductory calls and regular follow-up. Senior colleagues independently verified baseline and final surveys.
Pilot data from six practices suggested Glo Germ improved awareness of contamination risks and staff engagement with ICP. Full trial results are being finalised and are expected in June.
The session will explore this notable example of how RVNs can play instrumental roles within research. The results of this study will create an evidence-base to inform ICP and consequently improve infection control culture and ICP within veterinary teams.
- By the end of this session participants will:
- Be able to identify a variety of ways that nurses can engage with and lead in research and evidence-based veterinary medicine.
- Understand the potential influence of Glo Germ and use this to reflect upon infection control protocols.
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