Mrs Grace E. Magani

Research project: A mixed methods investigation into the experiences of Infection Prevention and Control Link Champions in Care Homes

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has catapulted Infection prevention in residential care settings into the spotlight. Link champions, with special interest in the subject have been around for a long time under various names, in different countries and settings across the globe. They are generally considered to be part of the infection prevention and control workforce. The role is gaining popularity as a means of improving infection prevention and control for COVID-19 response and other infections. Care home residents are known to be more susceptible to infections; but little is known about the availability of link champions across these settings. Information on perception of their roles, challenges or support available to them is also lacking.  

A mixed-methods design

-       To explore their role, challenges faced and factors which facilitate success - Interviews

-       To find out the numbers and designations of link champions; and support available for them in various care homes - Survey

Findings will be used to generate a report on the implementation of Infection Prevention and Control Link champion role in care homes, with recommendations for enhancing practice.

  • Research degree: PhD
  • Title of project: A mixed methods investigation into the experiences of Infection Prevention and Control Link Champions in Care Homes
  • Research supervisor: Professor Tushna Vandrevala
  • Other research supervisor: Dr Michelle Carter

Biography

I am a Registered Nurse with over 24 years' experience in hospital, community and public health nursing; and also qualified as a midwife abroad. While working as a Health Protection Nurse, I developed an interest in infection prevention and control after completing a Diploma in Infection control; and managing and supporting care homes with outbreaks. I have completed two Infection prevention and control secondment placements; one at a Local Authority; and the second at an NHS Clinical Commissioning Group.

Completing the post-graduate research in health practice further kindled my interest in research, and introduced me to various research methods and skills. I am keen to investigate the availability of infection prevention link champions across care homes and to explore challenges faced and success stories

Areas of research interest

  • Infection Prevention and Control
  • Antimicrobial Resistance
  • Healthcare-associated infections
  • Care Homes

Qualifications

  • PG Dip. Research in Health Practice, University of Bath, England
  • MSc Health Promotion, Bath Spa University College, England
  • BA (Hons) Health Studies, University of the West of England
  • Infection Control Award Diploma, Oxford Brookes University, England

Funding or awards received

  • Kingston University PhD Starter Bursary