The Role of Infection Control Nurse During Emerging Infectious Disease Epidemic: Focusing on the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome

Abstract

Background The aim of this study was to examine in detail the difficulties infection control nurses (ICN) experience in their work, and to investigate their roles during Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) outbreaks, using qualitative methods. Methods Two focus groups were formed by convenience sampling of eight infection control nurses from each of the hospitals where patients with suspected or confirmed MERS were hospitalized and from those hospitals where no MERS cases were found. One interview each was conducted for both of focus groups in November 2015. Contents of the focus group discussions were analyzed for the investigated features and categories. Results When MERS outbreaks occurred, ICNs provided suggestions on applications of policies, rules and procedures, reporting and communication; participated in education and trainings, consultations, detection and monitoring of MERS cases; and controlled infection among staff. Depending on the type of work, they had various roles such as coordinator, decision maker, administrator, information provider, educator, leader, consultant, and epidemiological investigator. Conclusion Infection control nurses performed various tasks and played an important role during a MERS outbreak. They experienced difficulties at a personal level as well as in their work environment. Therefore, it is necessary to provide a systematic education program to enhance ICNs competency, while clearly defining their role to help them cope with the infection crisis effectively. In addition to the national level, a system for self-supporting medical institutions should be established.