Mental models: a basic concept for human factors design in infection prevention. Issue 4 (April 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Sax, H.; Clack, L.
• Is Part Of: Journal of hospital infection. Volume 89:Issue 4(2015)
• Page Start: 335
• Page End: 339
• Publication Date: 2015-04
• Subjects: Behaviour change -- Human factors engineering -- Infection prevention and control -- Mental models; Cross infection -- Periodicals; Cross infection -- Prevention -- Periodicals; Nosocomial infections -- Periodicals; Nosocomial infections -- Prevention -- Periodicals; Cross Infection -- Periodicals; Cross Infection -- prevention & control -- Periodicals; Infection Control -- Periodicals; Electronic journals; 614.44
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jhin.2014.12.008
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0195-6701

Abstract

Summary: Much of the effort devoted to promoting better hand hygiene is based on the belief that poor hand hygiene reflects poor motivation. We argue, however, that automatic unconscious behaviour driven by 'mental models' is an important contributor to what actually happens. Mental models are concepts of reality – imaginary, often blurred, and sometimes unstable. Human beings use them to reduce mental load and free up capacity in the conscious mind to focus on deliberate activities. They are pragmatic solutions to the complexity of life. Knowledge of such mental processes helps healthcare designers and clinicians overcome barriers to behavioural change. This article reviews the concept of mental models and considers how it can be used to improve hand hygiene and patient safety.