title: Mental models: a basic concept for human factors design in infection prevention.
abstract: 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.
authors: HAL 14, Division of Infectious Diseases and Infection Control, University Hospital Zurich, Raemistrasse 100, 8091 Zurich, Switzerland. Electronic address: hugo.sax@usz.ch.
authors: H
authors: H
authors: Sax
authors: HAL 14, Division of Infectious Diseases and Infection Control, University Hospital Zurich, Raemistrasse 100, 8091 Zurich, Switzerland.
authors: L
authors: L
authors: Clack
mesh_terms: D001521:Behavior Therapy / Q000379:methods; D003428:Cross Infection / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000517:prevention & control*; D018562:Disease Transmission, Infectious / Q000517:prevention & control*; D006804:Ergonomics; D006268:Health Facilities; D006801:Humans; D017053:Infection Control / Q000379:methods* / Q000458:organization & administration*; D008960:Models, Psychological
keywords: Behaviour change; Human factors engineering; Infection prevention and control; Mental models