Infections acquired in a hospital (HAI) often referred to as nosocomial infections are related with increasing morbidity and death among patients that are hospitalised and are predisposed to an elevated risk of infection by health workers (HCWs). The need to maintain an effective infection prevention and control program is therefore essential for quality health care. This study sought to assess the knowledge and compliance of infection control practices of Cardiovascular Perfusionists in theatre at a private healthcare facility in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) in the city of Durban. We conducted a qualitative study based on in-depth interviews with 12 Cardiovascular Perfusionists (CP) who were purposively selected from private sector. 

The interviews lasted between 20 to 25 minutes and were transcribed, and then thematic analysis were applied using NVivo. The study found that there is a need for Clinical Technologist specialising in Cardiovascular Perfusion to undergo training in infection control and prevention practices at the higher education and training level. Subsequently, the study reveals that Cardiovascular Perfusionists have a good overall understanding of pathogens and the implications thereof. The study also notes that there is considerable compliance to infection control practices in theatre irrespective of the knowledge pertaining to infection control and prevention policies. We concluded that there is an overall good knowledge and understanding regarding infection control practices, although many felt that there exists an inequitable application of infection control policies due to professional biases.

Laura Naidoo is a Cardiovascular Perfusionist, residing in South Africa. She has recently completed her Masters’ in Health Sciences at the Durban University of Technology and is currently a PhD Candidate with the University of Kwa Zulu Natal (UKZN). She further holds a Post Grad diploma in Public Health also from UKZN. Laura is a member of the Radiography and Clinical Technology Board of the Health Professions Council of South Africa. She currently practices in the private sector of healthcare. She extends her knowledge to student training and development as a lecturer at the Durban university of Technology.