CHW108-Infection Outbreaks Policy

Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}

Infection Outbreaks Policy’

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to provide a structured and effective approach to managing infection outbreaks within {{org_field_name}}, ensuring compliance with Care Inspectorate Wales (CIW) regulations, Public Health Wales (PHW) guidance, and the Welsh Government’s Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) Framework. This policy outlines measures for the prevention, early detection, containment, and management of infectious disease outbreaks to protect residents, staff, and visitors while ensuring the continuation of high-quality care.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all staff, residents, visitors, healthcare professionals, and external contractors who enter the premises of {{org_field_name}}. It includes procedures for infection prevention, outbreak identification, response coordination, reporting, and recovery planning. It ensures that all stakeholders are prepared to manage infection outbreaks effectively and mitigate risks to vulnerable individuals.

3. Related Policies

This policy should be read in conjunction with:

CHW17 – Infection Prevention and Control Policy: Covers standard infection control measures.
CHW18 – Risk Management and Assessment Policy: Ensures proactive identification and mitigation of infection risks.
CHW25 – Notification of Other Incidents Policy: Provides guidance on regulatory reporting of outbreaks.
CHW33 – Staff Leave and Absence Policy: Ensures appropriate staffing during outbreaks.
CHW36 – Communication and Engagement with Service Users and Families Policy: Guides transparent communication with stakeholders.
CHW11 – Safe Care and Treatment Policy: Ensures infection outbreaks do not compromise care standards.

4. Policy Statement

{{org_field_name}} is committed to implementing robust infection prevention and outbreak management protocols to protect the health and safety of all individuals within the care home. This policy ensures compliance with legal and regulatory requirements and adopts evidence-based practices for infection control. We strive to minimise the impact of outbreaks by using proactive prevention strategies, early detection, swift containment measures, and effective communication.

5. Infection Prevention Measures

To reduce the risk of infection outbreaks, {{org_field_name}} implements the following prevention measures:

Hand Hygiene Compliance: Staff, residents, and visitors must adhere to strict handwashing and sanitisation protocols.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Appropriate PPE is provided and used in accordance with PHW guidelines.
Routine Cleaning and Disinfection: Regular cleaning schedules target high-touch areas, communal spaces, and resident rooms.
Air Circulation and Ventilation: Ensuring adequate airflow in all indoor areas by opening windows and using air purification systems.
Resident Health Monitoring: Continuous assessment of residents for symptoms of infectious diseases.
Vaccination Promotion: Encouraging residents and staff to receive vaccinations for seasonal flu, COVID-19, and other preventable illnesses.
Education and Training: Staff receive ongoing infection control training to ensure adherence to best practices.

6. Identifying and Declaring an Outbreak

An infection outbreak is defined as two or more linked cases of the same infectious disease within the care home. The process for identification and declaration includes:

Symptom Monitoring: Staff must report any signs of infection in residents, including fever, respiratory symptoms, gastrointestinal issues, or skin infections.
Threshold for Declaration: If two or more residents or staff members present symptoms within a short period, an outbreak is suspected.
Immediate Reporting: The Registered Manager notifies Public Health Wales and CIW, following reporting guidelines.
Outbreak Control Team (OCT): Convened to assess the situation, implement containment measures, and coordinate responses.

7. Outbreak Containment and Control Measures

Once an outbreak is identified, the following containment measures are implemented:

Isolation of Affected Individuals: Infected residents are moved to designated isolation areas.
Cohorting of Staff: Assigning specific staff to affected residents to prevent cross-contamination.
Suspension of Non-Essential Visits: Limiting visitor access to protect residents and staff.
Enhanced Cleaning Protocols: Increasing the frequency of disinfection, especially in high-risk areas.
Testing and Screening: Immediate testing of symptomatic individuals and close contacts.
Staff PPE Protocols: Ensuring strict adherence to PPE requirements for outbreak management.
Restricted Communal Activities: Temporarily suspending group activities to prevent transmission.
Increased Hydration and Nutrition Monitoring: Ensuring residents receive adequate fluids and nutrition to support recovery.

8. Communication and Stakeholder Engagement

Transparent communication during an outbreak is critical. {{org_field_name}} follows these communication protocols:

Informing Families: Prompt notification to residents’ families with clear updates on outbreak management.
Staff Briefings: Daily updates provided to staff regarding the status of the outbreak and their responsibilities.
Regulatory Reporting: CIW, PHW, and local authorities are kept informed through required reporting channels.
Media and External Communication: The Registered Manager is responsible for managing external inquiries to ensure accurate information is provided.

9. Staff Responsibilities and Workplace Safety

All staff members have a role in preventing and managing infection outbreaks:

Reporting Symptoms: Staff must immediately report any symptoms and follow self-isolation requirements.
Following Infection Control Guidelines: Adhering to PPE, hand hygiene, and isolation protocols.
Supporting Residents: Providing reassurance, mental health support, and ensuring physical comfort during isolation.
Attending Mandatory Training: Keeping up to date with infection control procedures and outbreak management strategies.

10. Recovery and Post-Outbreak Evaluation

Once an outbreak is controlled, {{org_field_name}} follows structured recovery steps:

Gradual Lifting of Restrictions: Based on public health advice, restrictions are eased systematically.
Deep Cleaning of Premises: Ensuring thorough disinfection before resuming normal operations.
Well-being Support for Residents and Staff: Mental health and debriefing sessions are offered to those affected.
Outbreak Review and Learning: Conducting a post-outbreak review to assess response effectiveness and update protocols as needed.
CIW and Public Health Reporting: Submitting a final report detailing the outbreak, actions taken, and lessons learned.

11. Compliance and Auditing

To ensure adherence to this policy, {{org_field_name}} implements:

Regular Infection Control Audits: Reviewing compliance with hygiene and prevention protocols.
Incident Reporting and Analysis: Ensuring all outbreaks are properly documented and reviewed.
Quality Assurance Monitoring: Evaluating effectiveness of infection prevention strategies and updating policies as necessary.
Regulatory Inspection Readiness: Ensuring all procedures align with CIW standards and recommendations.

12. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or updated in response to new guidance from CIW, Public Health Wales, or the Welsh Government. Any updates will be communicated to all staff to ensure continued compliance.

Responsible Person: {{org_field_registered_manager_first_name}} {{org_field_registered_manager_last_name}}
Reviewed on: {{last_update_date}}
Next Review Date: {{next_review_date}}
Copyright © {{current_year}} – {{org_field_name}}. All rights reserved.