New research to improve infection control for vulnerable patients at Caboolture Hospital.

Caboolture Hospital Intensive/Surgical Stream Clinical Research Nurse and PhD candidate Emma Williams is addressing a critical gap in infection control for vulnerable patients experiencing behavioural disturbances.

A new PhD project at Caboolture Hospital is set to address a critical gap in infection prevention and control for patients experiencing behavioural disturbances – one of the most vulnerable and complex cohorts in healthcare.

Caboolture Hospital Intensive/Surgical Stream Clinical Research Nurse and PhD candidate Emma Williams is exploring how infection prevention strategies can be tailored for patients whose behaviours are influenced by cognitive impairment, mental health conditions, substance use or psychosocial factors.

These patients face a higher risk of healthcare-associated infections, yet there is currently limited guidance for clinicians on how best to support them.

Funded by The Common Good, this is the first PhD supported within the Caboolture, Kilcoy and Woodford (CKW) Directorate and represents a significant step in building local research leadership in partnership with the Herston Infectious Diseases Institute (HeIDI).
Emma said her passion for improving patient care and strengthening local systems inspired her to undertake the PhD.

“This cohort of patients is incredibly vulnerable, and there is very little existing evidence to guide care,” Ms Williams said.

“I want to ensure our research reflects the unique needs of CKW and delivers practical improvements for our service.

“Ultimately, the research aims to develop an implementable infection prevention and control guideline to support staff, improve safety, and enhance outcomes and experiences for patients and their families.”

The project is currently in its early stages, with a scoping review nearing completion and plans underway for upcoming consumer and clinician interviews.