1.1 Explain how infection prevention policies and guidelines can be applied in own work setting
The implementation of infection prevention and control policies and guidance can vary across a range of work
In a care home setting, infection prevention policies and guidelines help to ensure the health of both staff and residents. Policies should include practices for hand hygiene, environmental cleaning, vaccination protocols for staff members as well as appropriate use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
Procedures outlining proper storage, handling and disposal of potentially infectious waste are also important. Additional policies related to visitor screening upon entry into the facility can further minimise the risk of infection transmission from outside sources.
Careful adherence to these procedures by all employees is essential in minimising infections among vulnerable elderly patients who may be immunocompromised due to underlying conditions or therapies such as chemotherapy or corticosteroid treatments, which reduce their body’s ability to fight off an infection.
Regular monitoring through auditing processes allows gaps in practice patterns that need improvement to be identified so appropriate changes can then be made quickly in order to maintain the best standards within our work setting at all times.
It is essential to train all staff on these policies and procedures, stressing their importance for the safety of everyone in our care. With the right attitude, infection prevention can be managed successfully within a care home setting and ensure that residents have an optimal quality of life.
Other answers in the full document:
- 1.2 Identify differences in the ways in which infection prevention and control policies and guidance are implemented in a range of work settings
- 2.6 Explain the functions of external bodies in supporting infection prevention and control in the work setting
- 3.3 Explain why particular devices need special handling to minimise the spread of infection
- 4.1 Explain how to work with others to identity infection outbreaks in own work setting
- 4.2 Explain how to work with others to implement policies and procedures following an infection outbreak
- 4.3 Describe how to provide information about outbreaks of infection in accessible formats to individuals and others
- 4.4 Describe ways to ensure that care for the individual is provided in the most appropriate place
- 4.5 Describe situations where additional guidance may need to be accessed to manage infection prevention and control incidents
- 5.1 Describe the process for sharing information about infections and suspected infections within own work setting
- 5.2 Describe processes for reporting accidents and incidents relating to infection prevention and control within own work setting