Table 4 Reoccurring themes (n ≥ 2) from selected open-ended KAP responses among participants in DRC and BF, 2021–2022^§

What is the difference between an IPC team and committee?

The larger IPC team makes decisions and the committee is operational.

19

The larger, heterogenous IPC committee makes decisions, and the smaller, homogenous team is operational.

23

The IPC committee makes decisions, and the IPC team is operational.

3

The larger team monitors hygiene activities.

2

What is the most effective way to train health care workers in the prevention of hospital-acquired infections (HAI)?

Practical and/or theoretical training approaches, ideally with context-specific content, should be used.

15

Practical and/or theoretical training approaches should be used.

18

Awareness should be raised through information dissemination (i.e. illustrating importance of measures, risks, responsibilities).

5

Awareness should be raised through information dissemination (i.e. illustrating importance of measures, risks, responsibilities).

7

The facility or the department should to hold follow-up or on demand trainings.

3

It should be ensured that everyone receives training, ideally on an annual basis related to standard and complementary precautions.

5

Training should be done through participatory methods.

3

Participative training or process integration from the beginning of the action should be done.

2

Training should be conducted routinely or in staff meetings.

3

Training should involve HCWs in the whole process of the IPC program.

2

How can you use healthcare-associated infection surveillance data?

Data can be used to improve IPC measures and quality of care.

9

Data can be used to evaluate and improve IPC programmes and quality of care.

13

Data can be used to give feedback and raise awareness for behavioral change.

9

Data can be used to provide feedback for behavioral change, training and decision making.

6

Data can be used to assess and evaluate effectiveness of IPC interventions.

6

Data can be used to guide IPC implementation.

2

Data can be used to provide feedback that can inform decision-making and trainings.

4

Quality assurance indicators can be used.

2

Data can only be used if you have the correct collection tools.

4

Data can be used to reduce costs and advocate for leadership support of IPC program implementation.

2

Indicator can be used to monitor hygiene or quality of care.

3