The variables in a study are the central concern of the research study. The effective handwashing technique in preventing catheter-associated tract infection (CAUTI) research has dependent and independent variables. The independent variables are presumed to cause the observed changes (LoBiondo-Wood, Haber & Titler, 2018). In this case, effective handwashing is the independent variable in this study. The dependent variable is the variable being measured in the study. It is the adjustable feature of the study which shows the effect of the interventions. In this study, the catheter-associated tract infection (CAUTI) is the dependent variable.
The data collection procedures need to be a focus on these variables of interest. First, information on effective handwashing practices should be obtained from the healthcare personnel. The researchers should gather information on how the healthcare personnel handwashing practices impact CAUTI. Specific techniques, including washing hands following the standard guidelines on handwashing by the World Health Organization before and after procedures, are beneficial for preventing infection (Assadi, 2018). The use of adequate clean water and soap is also an effective infection prevention strategy.
Furthermore, it is essential to identify the effects of handwashing practices on preventing CAUTI. Data on the signs and rates of infection provides an overview of the effectiveness of handwashing practices. Nevertheless, it is crucial to collect data on the dependent and independent variables to determine the ideal approaches to promote patient safety. It generates recommendations for techniques to improve the practices of healthcare personnel to avoid CAUTI in hospitalized patients (Assadi, 2018). Additionally, according to LoBiondo-Wood et al. (2018), effective data collection offers an opportunity to appraise the significance of the available protocols in managing catheter-associated tract infection CAUTI. This aspect is integral in instituting mechanisms for basing future improvement plans in healthcare.
References
Assadi F. (2018). Strategies for preventing catheter-associated urinary tract infections. International Journal of Preventive Medicine, 9(50). Web.
LoBiondo-Wood, G., Haber, J., & Titler, M. G. (2018). Evidence-based practice for nursing and healthcare quality improvement-e-book. Elsevier Health Sciences.