Implementation of a SMART-based infection control plan in an emergency intensive care unit: a prospective study

Multidrug-resistant organism (MDRO) infections pose significant challenges in intensive care settings. This prospective study aimed to evaluate the impact of a Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound (SMART) infection control plan on MDRO prevention among healthcare workers in an emergency intensive care unit (ICU). Fifty healthcare workers participated, and pre- and post-intervention assessments were conducted to measure changes in MDRO prevention indicators. Following implementation of the SMART-based plan, there was a statistically significant improvement in staff knowledge (p < 0.05), with increased hand hygiene compliance (72.1-94.2%) and isolation gown use (60.2-87.6%). MDRO infection rates decreased from 8.0 to 5.1% post-intervention (p = 0.027). These findings demonstrate the effectiveness of the SMART-based infection control plan in reducing MDRO infection rates and improving staff compliance in the emergency ICU setting.