Caregivers’ understanding and response to healthcare-associated infections in hospitalised children in Vietnam: a qualitative study

BACKGROUND: The presence of family members caring for hospitalised children provides essential support and comfort, but it also poses a significant risk for the transmission of infectious pathogens. Vietnam is facing a growing issue with healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) and increasing antimicrobial resistance, reflecting a global trend. Children, particularly newborns with underdeveloped immune systems, are at increased risk. AIM: This study aims to explore the awareness of HAIs as well as motivational drivers towards infection prevention through the lens of the Health Belief Model (HBM) among family caregivers of patients at a children's hospital in Hanoi, Vietnam. METHOD: =24) of children and newborns at the Oncology and Neonatal ward at Vietnam's National Children's Hospital from 15 January 2024 to 3 March 2024. Participants were chosen by purposeful sampling. Data were analysed by abductive, qualitative content analysis based on the HBM. RESULT: Awareness of HAIs varied, with some misconceptions about transmission. Recognising HAIs as serious health threats beyond basic hygiene knowledge boosted motivation to follow infection prevention and control (IPC) measures as well as longer hospital stays and social influences. Increased awareness of infection risks was linked to stronger adherence, aligning with HBM principles. CONCLUSION: Family caregivers play a vital role in infection prevention, yet their awareness of HAIs is inconsistent and sometimes limited by misconceptions. This study highlights that perceiving HAIs as serious health threats is a key motivation of improved hygiene compliance, as in line with the HBM. Family caregivers play a vital role in maintaining a safe hospital environment, and their involvement in IPC strategies should be actively researched, supported and strengthened.