The IPC Hobbits: An Organisational Journey to Improve Environmental Cleaning and Reduce Healthcare-Associated Infections
Tracks
Tāwhirimātea 1
| Wednesday, August 26, 2026 |
| 1:40 PM - 2:00 PM |
| Tāwhirimātea 1 |
Overview
Ann Whitfield
Speaker
Mrs Robyn Davidson
Nurse
Te Whatu Ora, Waikato
The IPC Hobbits: An Organisational Journey to Improve Environmental Cleaning and Reduce Healthcare-Associated Infections
Abstract
Rationale:
Environmental cleaning is a cornerstone of Infection Prevention and Control (IPC). However, achieving consistent practice across complex healthcare systems remains challenging. An organisational review identified fragmented guidance, inconsistent product use, and unclear roles and responsibilities contributing to variability in cleaning practices. To support engagement and behaviour change, an evidence-based improvement programme was framed using a themed “IPC Hobbits” journey, translating key IPC principles into an accessible and memorable format.
Methodology:
A system-wide service evaluation was undertaken in a New Zealand hospital, including environmental audit data, document review, and stakeholder engagement. Seven cleaning-related documents were identified with variation in content and application. Environmental audits assessed 15 elements, with scores <80% triggering follow-up. A structured improvement programme was implemented, including consolidation into a single “Cleaning Best Practice (A–Z)” guideline, standardisation of disinfectant products, and targeted education. The “IPC Hobbits” framework aligned key steps of effective cleaning to a staged journey (preparation, correct product use, thorough cleaning, and adherence to contact time), supporting staff understanding and recall.
Significant Results:
Baseline audit compliance was low 60-80% compliance, with significant variation in practice. Following implementation, compliance improved too many areas over 80%. Staff demonstrated increased understanding of key principles, including “clean between” practices and the importance of disinfectant contact time. The themed approach enhanced engagement across disciplines and supported consistent messaging.
Conclusions:
Combining system-level standardisation with creative, theory-informed engagement strategies can improve environmental cleaning practices. The “IPC Hobbits” approach provided a practical mechanism to translate evidence into daily practice within a complex healthcare environment.
Recommendations:
Healthcare organisations should prioritise simplified, standardised cleaning guidance and consider innovative engagement approaches to support behaviour change and sustain IPC improvements.
Environmental cleaning is a cornerstone of Infection Prevention and Control (IPC). However, achieving consistent practice across complex healthcare systems remains challenging. An organisational review identified fragmented guidance, inconsistent product use, and unclear roles and responsibilities contributing to variability in cleaning practices. To support engagement and behaviour change, an evidence-based improvement programme was framed using a themed “IPC Hobbits” journey, translating key IPC principles into an accessible and memorable format.
Methodology:
A system-wide service evaluation was undertaken in a New Zealand hospital, including environmental audit data, document review, and stakeholder engagement. Seven cleaning-related documents were identified with variation in content and application. Environmental audits assessed 15 elements, with scores <80% triggering follow-up. A structured improvement programme was implemented, including consolidation into a single “Cleaning Best Practice (A–Z)” guideline, standardisation of disinfectant products, and targeted education. The “IPC Hobbits” framework aligned key steps of effective cleaning to a staged journey (preparation, correct product use, thorough cleaning, and adherence to contact time), supporting staff understanding and recall.
Significant Results:
Baseline audit compliance was low 60-80% compliance, with significant variation in practice. Following implementation, compliance improved too many areas over 80%. Staff demonstrated increased understanding of key principles, including “clean between” practices and the importance of disinfectant contact time. The themed approach enhanced engagement across disciplines and supported consistent messaging.
Conclusions:
Combining system-level standardisation with creative, theory-informed engagement strategies can improve environmental cleaning practices. The “IPC Hobbits” approach provided a practical mechanism to translate evidence into daily practice within a complex healthcare environment.
Recommendations:
Healthcare organisations should prioritise simplified, standardised cleaning guidance and consider innovative engagement approaches to support behaviour change and sustain IPC improvements.
Biography
Robyn Davidson is a Registered Nurse in Infection Prevention and Control at Te Whatu Ora Waikato, drawing on over 30 years’ experience across acute and specialist healthcare. She holds a Postgraduate Certificate in Infection Prevention and Control. Her work centres on clean care as a foundational strategy to reduce healthcare-associated infections and improve outcomes for patients and staff.
Ann Whitfield is a Registered Nurse with 28 years’ experience, including 20 in senior IPC leadership. She is IPC Lead at a New Zealand tertiary hospital and an ACIPC Board Director and Fellow. Her work spans national programmes, governance, and system improvement. She is completing a Master’s in Human Factors and Patient Safety.
