Training experience, perceived needs, and preferences for epidemiological investigation and risk assessment training among infection prevention and control practitioners in Shanghai

Abstract

Infection prevention and control practitioners (IPCPs) play a crucial role in managing infectious diseases within hospitals. In this study, we aim to assess the training experience, perceived training needs, and training preferences of IPCPs in Shanghai regarding epidemiological investigation and risk assessment, to provide a scientific basis for developing tailored training programs and improving IPCPs’ field epidemiology preparedness. From September to November 2023, a cross-sectional survey was conducted in medical institutions in Shanghai via convenient sampling. Data were collected on demographic characteristics, experience in epidemiological investigation and disposal, training experience and perceived training needs. The chi-square test was used to compare the differences between the experiences of epidemiological investigations and disposal, and the perceived training needs of IPCPs in different hospitals and different positions. Multivariable ordinal logistic regression was performed to identify factors associated with training willingness. A total of 354 IPCPs from 153 medical institutions were included. Significant differences in education, professional background, and professional title were observed between IPCPs in tertiary vs. non‑tertiary hospitals and between full‑time vs. part‑time IPCPs (all p < 0.05). IPCPs in non‑tertiary hospitals more often lacked in‑hospital emergency handling experience (32.10% vs. 16.15% in tertiary hospitals, p < 0.001), and the same was true for part‑time vs. full‑time IPCPs (37.5% vs. 13.8%, p < 0.001). Tertiary hospital IPCPs had higher exposure to provincial/municipal level epidemiological investigation training (41.15% vs. 25.31%, p = 0.002) and professional society training (17.19% vs. 6.17%, p = 0.003). Full‑time IPCPs also received more professional society training than part‑time IPCPs (17.62% vs. 4.17%, p < 0.001). No significant difference was found between hospital levels in emergency drill participation, only 27.62% of full‑time IPCPs had never participated in drills, compared with 45.83% of part‑time IPCPs ( p = 0.001). Overall, 79.94% expressed willingness to participate in relevant training, with no significant differences by hospital level or position; multivariable ordinal logistic regression identified no significant independent predictors (all p > 0.05). Training preferences varied: non‑tertiary and part‑time IPCPs preferred short, frequent sessions with emphasis on infectious disease reporting, whereas tertiary and full‑time IPCPs preferred longer, and less frequent training focusing on field epidemiological investigation techniques. It is necessary to customize differentiated training programs according to hospital level and job group, with different emphases, to improve the relevant abilities of IPCPs and raise the overall level. Additionally, a talent reserve team skilled in epidemiological investigations and emergency responses should be established within hospitals to enhance preparedness for possible future infectious disease epidemics.