Barriers to Implementing Infection Control Guidelines in Intensive Care Units

Abstract

Infection control is a critical component of patient safety in Intensive Care Units (ICUs) due to the high risk of healthcare-associated infections. Despite the availability of evidence-based guidelines, adherence remains inconsistent. This study aimed to explore the perceived barriers to implementing infection control guidelines among ICU healthcare professionals. A qualitative research design was employed using semi-structured, in-depth interviews with 15 ICU nurses and physicians from two tertiary care hospitals. Participants were selected through purposive sampling to ensure representation of varied experiences. Data were analyzed thematically following Braun and Clarke’s framework, enabling identification of recurrent patterns and themes related to challenges in guideline adherence. Analysis revealed five major barriers: (1) inadequate staffing and workload pressures, (2) insufficient training and refresher courses, (3) limited availability of infection control supplies, (4) organizational and leadership gaps and (5) perceived lack of relevance or practicality of certain guidelines in the ICU context. Interconnected systemic and behavioral factors hindered consistent compliance, with staff often prioritizing immediate patient care needs over protocol adherence. The findings underscore the multifactorial nature of barriers to infection control in ICUs, combining resource constraints, organizational culture, and individual perceptions. Addressing these barriers requires targeted interventions, including staff capacity building, improved resource allocation and leadership-driven infection control culture. Strengthening these areas may enhance compliance and reduce infection rates in critical care settings.