Collaborative Basic Infection Control in Budapest, Hungary

ISSUE: The APIC Minnesota chapter (APIC-MN) and Hungarian Association of Practitioners in Infection Control (HAPIC) have had a sister chapter relationship for 5 years. During exchange programs, a need was expressed by members of HAPIC for assistance in developing and offering a model infection control educational program. PROJECT: Members of APIC-MN International Committee developed educational materials including PowerPoint programs on basic aspects of infection control, including epidemiology, microbiology, surveillance, and the four major nosocomial issues: surgical sites, respiratory, vascular, and urinary tract infections. These modules were sent to our colleagues in Hungary for assessment of applicability to Hungarian practice. Preceding the October 2003 course in Budapest, the Hungarian and U.S. faculty reviewed materials and educational methods to be used. Following the course, faculty reviewed student evaluations, performed an assessment of teaching techniques and materials, and began preliminary plans for the next expanded course. Using materials from APIC-MN, the course was taught by five Hungarian ICPs and an APIC-MN ICP with a translator. The six registrants, from several facilities with varying levels of expertise in infection control, were encouraged to ask questions and to participate in group discussions. RESULTS: Six ICPs from Hungary may implement and practice contemporary infection control methods in their facilities. The Hungarian members of the faculty developed further expertise in education and were encouraged to continue offering courses. LESSONS LEARNED: Building relationships are critical to the success of collaborative ventures. Reviewing and using adult learning theories increases instructor and student learning. This project emphasized our common values to improve patient safety and meet the same standards of infection control.