Investigating the causes and prevention of healthcare associated pneumonia.

Ref: SHLS20032 Reilly

Epidemiological data from Europe and the USA suggests that pneumonia is the most common healthcare associated infection, with the majority of cases being non-ventilator associated. Given the burden of hospital associated pneumonia (HAP) on healthcare resources and patient morbidity and mortality, with the associated need for antibiotics in an era of increasing antimicrobial resistance, it is critical that measures to prevent HAP are implemented. Current evidence suggests that a range of fundamental nursing care practices, such as oral hygiene and promoting physical activity, as well as basic transmission based infection prevention measures such as hand hygiene, could significantly reduce the incidence of HAP. However, little is known about nurse’s awareness, attitudes and behaviours in relation to the effective, consistent implementation of these preventative measures.

This project may adopt a variety of approaches to address this important clinical issue: i) an epidemiological study to identify where and when HAP occurs during the patient stay, as well as associated risk factors ii) a qualitative study exploring nurse’s perceptions of preventative measures for HAP iii) a mixed methods study incorporating elements of both approaches.

Candidates are requested to submit an outline research proposal (see Guidance on writing a research proposal) related to the project (maximum 2,000 words).

This project is part of a programme of work being delivered by the SHIP research group (Safeguarding Health through Infection Prevention) https://www.gcu.ac.uk/hls/research/researchgroups/safeguardinghealththroughinfectionprevention/

The successful applicant will have a background in public health, epidemiology, psychology, nursing, or other relevant healthcare discipline, with a minimum of a 2:1 Honours degree and preferably holding a Masters degree with Merit. Previous epidemiology or qualitative research experience is desirable.