Interprofessional Collaboration in Infection Control and Impact on Patient Safety: A Systematic Review
Keywords:
Interprofessional Collaboration, Infection Control, Patient Safety, Healthcare-Associated InfectionsAbstract
Introduction: HAIs are a global and Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) health issue that is a major threat to patient safety and increases morbidity, mortality, and health care expenses. With the Saudi healthcare system being in the midst of a colossal transformation with Vision 2030, the interprofessional collaboration (IPC) as a risk-reducing mechanism has been in the limelight of the shift toward integrated and patient-centered care. Whereas the traditional infection control featured personalized adherence, the contemporary safety models highlight the concerted efforts of various departments.
Study Objective: The main aim of the systematic review will be to critically assess the role and efficacy of interprofessional collaboration (IPC) in infection control activities in healthcare facilities in Saudi Arabia. Particularly, the review is expected to determine the impact of IPC on the prevention of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) and improvement of patient safety outcomes.
Methodology: This was done by conducting a systematic literature search according to the PRISMA 2020 recommendations in major electronic databases, such as PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, and the Saudi Digital Library. Articles published in 2000 to 2025 that were related to multidisciplinary teamwork, infection prevention, and patient safety in KSA were taken. The quality of methods was evaluated on the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) and CASP critical appraisal tools. These data were synthesized thematically by using clinical outcomes, metrics of teamwork, and structural enablers...
Conclusion: Interprofessional collaboration is one of the most vital factors of infection control success and is needed to reach the safety standards of Saudi Vision 2030. Cohesive workflows/inter-departmental digital surveillance is very effective in mitigating departmental silos to minimize HAIs. In order to realize these advantages, Saudi healthcare organizations need to move towards the non-punitive just culture, institutionalize interprofessional education (IPE) within clinical programs.
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