Description

This course is designed for healthcare workers and other individuals working within healthcare environments who require an understanding of infection prevention and control principles and the precautions used to reduce the transmission of infectious agents. The course introduces common causes of infection, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites and prions, and considers how infectious agents may be transmitted through contact, droplets and airborne routes. Learners consider factors that may increase susceptibility to infection and the importance of applying appropriate infection prevention and control measures to protect patients, workers and visitors. The course explores Standard Infection Control Precautions (SICPs), including hand hygiene, personal protective equipment (PPE), safe use and disposal of sharps, decontamination of reusable instruments and equipment, management of blood and body fluid spills, patient placement and infection risk assessment, Aseptic Non-Touch Technique (ANTT), and the safe management of clinical waste and linen. Learners are also introduced to Transmission-Based Precautions (TBPs) for known or suspected infections, including contact, droplet and airborne precautions. The course considers appropriate patient isolation, use of dedicated equipment, respiratory protection and fit testing requirements, together with maintaining compassionate and person-centred care while additional precautions are in place. The course is based on relevant UK infection prevention and control principles, including the National Infection Prevention and Control Manual (NIPCM) for England, the Health and Social Care Act 2008: Code of Practice on the prevention and control of infections, the Health and Safety (Sharp Instruments in Healthcare) Regulations 2013 and the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH).

Topics