Innovations in Education for Infection Prevention: A Narrative Review of Strategies to Reduce Healthcare-Associated Infections
Published:
Jan 4, 2026
Keywords:
Healthcare-associated infections infection prevention and control education simulation artificial intelligence
Abstract
Background: Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) remain a major cause of morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs worldwide. Education of healthcare workers is a cornerstone of infection prevention and control (IPC), yet traditional methods often fail to produce sustained behavioral change.
Objective: This narrative review synthesizes evidence on contemporary educational tools for IPC, focusing on their impact on compliance with infection prevention practices and infection outcomes, with emphasis on data from Western countries.
Methods: A narrative review approach incorporating systematic elements was used. PubMed, Embase, and Scopus were searched for English-language studies published between 2000 and 2024 evaluating educational interventions in IPC. Of 452 abstracts screened, 117 full texts were reviewed, and 67 studies were included. Data were synthesized narratively.
Results: Simulation-based and multimodal interventions were most consistently associated with reductions in HAIs, including 40–66% decreases in catheter-related bloodstream infections and ~50% reductions in MRSA bacteremia. E-learning, gamification, and mobile platforms improved scalability and engagement; VR/AR enhanced experiential learning but showed mixed effects on real-world compliance. AI-driven feedback systems provided continuous reinforcement and early evidence of infection reduction.
Conclusion: Theory-informed, multimodal educational strategies significantly improve compliance and can reduce HAI rates. Future directions include adaptive AI-based learning, expanded Just-in-Time Training (JITT), and rigorous evaluation of infection outcomes.
Article Details
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Manthou, P., Lioliousis, G., S. Chrysi, M., Bourazani, M., Giga, A., Atherini, A., & Pappa, D. (2026). Innovations in Education for Infection Prevention: A Narrative Review of Strategies to Reduce Healthcare-Associated Infections. Health & Research Journal, 12(1), 60–68. https://doi.org/10.12681/healthresj.42560
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