Barrier precautions in trauma resuscitations: multivaried analysis of factors affecting use.

Abstract

To determine the relative importance of factors affecting use of barrier precautions by trauma team members. Prospective, nonblinded review of barrier precaution use by trauma team members over three periods. A multivaried analysis of factors affecting use then was conducted. A 615-bed Level I trauma center in New York State with an accredited surgical residency program. Trauma team members involved in resuscitating multitrauma patients in the trauma room. Period 1: June to August 1991, barrier precaution use before interventions; period 2: September 1991 to January 1992, educational seminars held and material access improved by designated cart; period 3: February to June 1992, legislation mandating barrier precaution use introduced. Barrier precaution compliance improved significantly in periods 2 and 3. The improvement was seen in all providers studied. Improvement in barrier precaution use correlated significantly with education, materials access, and legislation. Improved compliance with barrier precaution use can be affected by education, improving materials access, and legislation. The relative importance of education versus materials access requires further study.