A Mixed-methods Study on Factors Influencing and Hindering the Practice of Standard Precautions in Veterand Hospital Nurses

Objectives: This study investigated the influencing and hindering factors on the practice of standard precautions among nurses in Veterans hospitals. Methods: The study was a mixed-method research with embedded design using secondary data analysis. Participants who responded to the open-ended question about “reasons for not following standard precautions” were 139 out of 180 nurses from the original data. Data from conservative sources were subjected to secondary data analysis (quantitative research) and additional analysis (qualitative research). Results: The perceived seriousness (β = 0.17, <i>p</i> = 0.031), perceived barriers (β = -0.32, <i>p</i> < 0.001), under 30 years old (β = -0.20, <i>p</i> = 0.017) and unit of ward (β = -0.19, <i>p</i> = <i>p</i> = 0.013) were found as a significant factor influencing practice of standard precautions. The qualitative data were classified into two categories: ‘individuals’ (48.4%) and ‘organization’ (51.6%). Conclusions: The practice of standard precautions is not entirely limited to the area of nurse personnel, but is a social activity, meaning that hospital organizations are also important.