Pushback is an inherent aspect of the Infection Preventionist (IP) role. Over time, I’ve come to anticipate it—and even welcome it—when it’s expressed professionally and constructively. While our primary focus is patient safety, it’s natural for healthcare professionals to question recommendations, especially when they challenge long-standing workflows or habits.
Many healthcare workers have spent years refining their processes, so it’s understandable when they resist changes, even if those changes are designed to reduce healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) and improve safety.
Real-World Example: Implementing Trophon for High-Level Disinfection
Early in my career, I encountered significant resistance while leading the implementation of Trophon for high-level disinfection. At the time, our facility relied solely on probe covers for ultrasound probes, without performing any high-level disinfection. When we proposed modifying this practice, providers voiced concerns about probe availability, workflow disruption, and cost—all of which were valid considerations.
Rather than viewing this resistance as pure opposition, I reframed it as an opportunity to educate and collaborate.
For team members concerned about costs, I highlighted how the financial impact of HAIs often far exceeds the cost of disinfection. I also presented peer-reviewed research and industry guidelines that supported the use of high-level disinfection as an evidence-based best practice.
Four Strategies for Managing Pushback Effectively
1. Anticipate Resistance
Whenever I propose a process change, I prepare for some level of resistance. Change can be difficult, especially in high-stakes healthcare environments. While this resistance once frustrated me, I now view it as an opportunity for meaningful dialogue.
Anticipating objections allows me to enter these discussions with patience, confidence, and well-prepared responses rooted in evidence and empathy.
2. Build a Data-Driven Case
To gain stakeholder support, it’s essential to prepare thoroughly. Before presenting a recommendation, I gather:
- Relevant data
- Peer-reviewed research
- Regulatory and industry guidelines
Having robust, evidence-based support for your recommendations helps strengthen your credibility and reduces the emotional resistance that can sometimes accompany change.
3. Clearly Communicate the Rationale
Healthcare professionals are far more likely to support change when they understand the “why” behind it. Most providers prioritize patient safety—but they still need clear, concise, and evidence-based explanations.
When I frame proposed changes around improved outcomes, regulatory compliance, or operational efficiency, it becomes easier for stakeholders to align with the goal.
4. Serve as a Knowledgeable and Accessible Resource
Change often brings questions and uncertainty. To facilitate smooth implementation, I proactively develop FAQs and make myself available for follow-up conversations.
Being seen as a reliable, supportive resource helps foster trust, encourages collaboration, and sets the stage for future quality improvement initiatives.
Conclusion: Managing Pushback with Strategy and Confidence
Effectively managing pushback is a core skill for every Infection Preventionist. By:
- Anticipating resistance
- Building a strong, data-backed case
- Communicating with clarity and purpose
- Serving as a knowledgeable resource
we can navigate challenges and drive meaningful improvements in infection prevention and control.
Change may not always be met with immediate acceptance—but with the right strategies, we can ensure that it’s not only achievable, but impactful.
