Abstract
The objective of this study was to elucidate the patterns of awareness of infection prevention among nurses responsible for care of the elderly. Using a qualitative study method, a continuous comparative analysis was conducted of 17 nurses who were experienced in the care of elderly people. The results indicated that their awareness of infection prevention could be defined by the following 6 categories: “infections that cannot be prevented by nurses alone,” “dilemma for nurses,” “sense of responsibility as professionals,” “basic knowledge of infection-prevention measures,” “discipline and individualized education required as part of measures to prevent infections,” and “desired results.” “Dilemma for nurses” and “sense of responsibility as professionals” were identified as core categories. The nurses had a sense of dilemma concerning the relationship between themselves and patients and other staff, as exemplified by “gap between knowledge and practice” and “infections that cannot be prevented by nurses alone.” These categories should be useful motivators for education on infection prevention.
