Faculty, Staff and Student Publications
Publication Date
2-1-2025
Journal
Workplace Health & Safety
Abstract
Adult-onset asthma, notably prevalent among healthcare professionals, especially nurses, is often attributed to occupational factors such as exposure to cleaning agents. Studies consistently underscore the substantial role of such exposure in work-related asthma among hospital staff. We aimed to (a) identify and characterize current practices in cleaning and aerosolized medication administration; (b) assess changes in practices since a similar 2003 study of Texas healthcare workers; and (c) identify factors contributing to diverse exposures within healthcare job categories. We conducted focus groups with 38 participants in 6 healthcare settings, analyzing current practices, changes since 2003, and factors contributing to exposure diversity. We used a three-step approach for data analysis, including sociodemographic characterization, a scissor-and-sort technique for exposure description, and qualitative content analysis. Participants were primarily healthcare providers (76%) and housekeepers/cleaners (11%) who reported exposure to aerosolized medications, cleaning products, adhesives, and solvents. Participants reported transitioning from cleaning practices to new formulas with reduced odors and shifting from spray cleansers to wipes. Personal protective equipment (PPE) used during cleaning tasks varied, with training differing among job categories. Aerosolized medication administration varied among facilities, with reported medication types and protocol changes over time. The results emphasized the significance of maintaining uniform protection, disseminating knowledge, and consistently adhering to PPE protocols in the healthcare environment. Addressing the identified gaps in comprehension and potential sources of exposure variability requires additional focus on occupational health and safety initiatives.
Keywords
Humans, Occupational Exposure, Focus Groups, Male, Female, Adult, Qualitative Research, Texas, Middle Aged, Health Personnel, Personal Protective Equipment, Health Facilities, Asthma, qualitative research methods, occupational health, respiratory conditions/asthma, employee health, workplace hazards
DOI
10.1177/21650799241284085
PMID
39440680
PMCID
PMC11774666
PubMedCentral® Posted Date
2-1-2025
PubMedCentral® Full Text Version
Author MSS
Published Open-Access
yes
Included in
Mental and Social Health Commons, Oncology Commons, Pathological Conditions, Signs and Symptoms Commons, Patient Safety Commons, Respiratory Tract Diseases Commons
