Adherence to Infection Prevention and Control Guidelines: A Vignette-based Study of Decision-making and Risk-taking in Young Adults with Cystic Fibrosis

Background: Balancing cystic fibrosis (CF) care with demands of normal life is associated with decreased adherence to infection prevention and control (IPC) guidelines.

Methods: Adults with CF, aged 18-25years, were invited to participate via UK CF Trust social media platforms. An online survey evaluated participants' decision-making in nine clinician-rated vignettes and assessed the perceived influence of infection-related information sources.

Results: Participants (n=87, mean 21.4years [SD=2.45]; 75% female) were less likely to engage in the high-risk scenarios, although demonstrated greater awareness of cross-infection than environmental risks. Associations between risk-perception and willingness to participate in five vignette-based hypothetical activities were significant (p<0.05). Thematic analysis emphasised influences of past experience and a need to achieve good quality of life. Knowledge gaps were evident.

Conclusions: People with CF make decisions that discriminate between risk-levels but are not always based on robust knowledge. They also show some inclination towards engaging in risky behaviours.