NURS06 - Mapping the Evidence on Aseptic Technique in Wound Dressing across Healthcare Setting: A Scoping Review

Overview

Wound management is fundamental component of clinical care, with dressing procedures performed across diverse healthcare settings including hospitals, community care, and aged care facilities. A key component of safe wound care is the use of aseptic technique, which aims to minimise the introduction of pathogenic microorganisms and reduce the risk of infection. Aseptic techniques include a range of practices, including hand hygiene, use of sterile equipment, maintenance of a sterile field, and appropriate handling of wound dressings.¹ Variations exist in terminology and application, such as distinctions between sterile technique, clean technique, and aseptic non-touch technique (ANTT), leading to inconsistency in clinical practice.²

The third edition of The Application of Aseptic Technique in Wound Dressing Procedure – A Consensus Document, published in 2020,³ represents a key effort to standardise practice and provide guidance for clinicians. However, as this document is now six years old, there is a need to examine how the evidence base has evolved since its publication. In addition, while the consensus document provides expert guidance, it does not comprehensively map or synthesise all empirical evidence across different study designs, populations, and healthcare contexts. Emerging research, changes in infection prevention practices, and increased emphasis on evidence-based care highlight the importance of reassessing the current literature. A scoping review is therefore needed to map the breadth of available evidence, clarify key concepts, and identify gaps to inform clinical practice and future research.

The research team is working in collaboration with experts in USA to complete the update of the Application of Aseptic Technique in Wound Dressing Procedure – A Consensus Document – fourth edition. The first part of this work will include a scoping review, aiming to map the breadth of available evidence, clarify key concepts, and identify evidence to inform clinical practice and gaps for future research.

The scoping review will be commencing in July 2026 and expected to complete in March 2027.

Research engagement

The student will engage with the completion of a scoping review, aiming to map the breadth of available evidence, clarify key concepts, and identify evidence to inform clinical practice and gaps for future research. This is an exciting opportunity for the student to contribute to the review as part of an international, interdisciplinary team.

Research activities

1. Performing data extraction of the included articles for the scoping review
2. Synthesising and mapping evidence into relevant sub-topics.
3. Writing up results

Research skills

Research and analytical skills: Data management skills, critically reviewing and synthesising evidence, and understanding research design;

Critical thinking skills: evaluating complex and /or conflict evidence, interpreting findings;

Collaboration and teamwork: working as part of an international, interdisciplinary team and participating in group discussions and consensus decision-making.

Outcomes

1. Completion of data extraction of the included articles for the scoping review;

2. Synthesise and map evidence into relevant sub-topics.

3. Contribute to drafting the methods and results sections of the scoping review.

Skills and experience

1. Currently enrolled in, or has successfully completed, the NSB203 unit.

2. Introductory data management skills are desirable but not essential

Start date

2 November, 2026

End date

19 February, 2027

Location

School of Nursing, QUT Kelvin Grove campus.

The student will be based in the same work area as the supervisors and other members of the wound research team, who will be available each day to guide and assist.

Additional information

The student will be provided with a desk and computer and access to resources and will be guided on research methodology.

Keywords

• aseptic technique
• Wound care
• dressing
• wound infection

Contact

Dr Ut Bui

073138 3876

thiut.bui@qut.edu.au