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{{org_field_name}}
Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}
Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) and Cleanliness Policy
1. Purpose and Scope
This policy outlines the infection prevention and control measures at {{org_field_name}} to ensure the safety of service users, staff, and visitors. It aligns with the Code of Practice on the prevention and control of infections under The Health and Social Care Act 2008 and follows guidance from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and Public Health England (PHE).
This policy applies to:
- All staff members, including care workers, managers, and administrative staff.
- Service users and their families, to ensure safe care practices at home.
- Visitors and external professionals involved in Supported Living.
2. Infection Control Management and Monitoring Systems
To ensure effective infection prevention and control (IPC), {{org_field_name}} has established a structured governance framework that includes leadership responsibilities, infection prevention systems, and monitoring mechanisms.
2.1 Governance and Leadership
Governance and leadership in infection control are essential to ensuring a safe and hygienic care environment for service users, staff, and visitors.
Registered Manager Responsibilities
The Registered Manager ({{org_field_registered_manager_first_name}} {{org_field_registered_manager_last_name}}) holds overall responsibility for infection prevention and control, including:
- Ensuring compliance with the Health and Social Care Act 2008 and CQC infection control regulations.
- Leading policy development and implementation of infection prevention measures.
- Ensuring staff receive regular infection control training and updates.
- Overseeing incident reporting, investigations, and corrective actions in the event of outbreaks.
- Ensuring adequate PPE stock levels and proper PPE use across all care operations.
- Coordinating with Public Health England (PHE), NHS Infection Control Teams, and Local Authorities when required.
Designated Infection Control Lead (ICL) Responsibilities
Designated Infection Control Lead (ICL) – {{org_field_infection_control_lead_name}} – ({{org_field_infection_control_lead_role}}) is appointed to oversee daily infection prevention compliance and support staff in maintaining best practices. The ICL will:
- Conduct regular inspections to ensure infection control protocols are followed.
- Provide ongoing training and competency checks for staff.
- Monitor and report infection trends, outbreaks, and risk assessments.
- Advise on infection risk mitigation for service users.
- Work with healthcare professionals to ensure infection control best practices are maintained.
The Registered Manager and ICL will collaborate to ensure continuous improvement in infection prevention and control measures.
2.2 Infection Prevention Systems
A comprehensive infection prevention system is in place to minimise the risk of infection transmission in Supported Living settings. This includes risk assessments, daily hygiene practices, and an incident reporting system.
Risk Assessment Process
Before delivering care, we will conduct infection control risk assessments for:
- New service users, considering their health conditions, immune status, and potential exposure risks.
- Service users requiring wound care, catheter care, or respiratory support, as they are at higher risk of infection.
- Shared living environments where infection may spread easily.
- Household risk factors, such as pets, poor ventilation, or frequent visitors.
Risk assessments will be regularly updated based on changes in a service user’s condition or environment.
Daily Infection Prevention Practices
All staff must adhere to Standard Infection Control Precautions (SICPs), including:
- Hand Hygiene:
- Staff must wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before and after any care activity.
- Alcohol-based hand sanitisers should be used when soap and water are unavailable.
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
- Care workers must wear gloves, aprons, and masks where appropriate.
- PPE must be disposed of safely and in line with waste management policies.
- Environmental Cleanliness:
- Regular disinfection of high-contact surfaces (door handles, equipment, and mobility aids).
- Cleaning of care equipment after each use.
- Ensuring laundry is handled safely to prevent cross-contamination.
Infection Reporting and Outbreak Management
A robust reporting system will be in place to track infections, suspected outbreaks, and incidents.
- Care workers must report any infection symptoms in service users (e.g., fever, respiratory issues, wounds with signs of infection) to the Registered Manager or Care Coordinator. This can be done via electronic means (software), by phone {{org_field_phone_no}}, or email at {{org_field_registered_manager_email}}.
- A central infection control log will be maintained to track all infections.
- In the event of an outbreak (e.g., flu, norovirus, COVID-19), emergency protocols will be activated, including:
- Immediate risk assessment and containment measures.
- Notification to Public Health England (PHE) and the Local Authority.
- Implementation of isolation procedures for affected service users if required.
2.3 Monitoring and Audits
To maintain high infection control standards, we will implement regular monitoring and auditing processes.
Monthly Infection Control Audits
- Conducted by the Infection Control Lead to assess compliance with infection control protocols.
- Includes spot-checks on hand hygiene, PPE use, and environmental cleanliness.
- Audit findings will be documented, and action plans will be implemented for identified gaps.
Staff Compliance Checks
- Random competency assessments for staff to ensure they follow infection prevention guidelines.
- Observation audits to ensure proper handwashing and PPE use.
- Staff feedback sessions to address infection control concerns or knowledge gaps.
Annual Infection Control Training
- Mandatory infection control training for all staff during induction and annually thereafter.
- Special training on handling infectious diseases and outbreak management.
- Scenario-based training on correct PPE usage and safe disposal procedures.
- Staff will be kept updated on any new infection control guidance from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).
3. Infection Risk Assessment and Management
Infection risk assessment and management are critical components of our infection control strategy at {{org_field_name}}. By identifying potential infection risks and implementing effective mitigation strategies, we ensure the safety of our service users and staff.
3.1 Identifying and Assessing Infection Risks
Each service user will undergo an individualised infection risk assessment to determine their susceptibility to infections and potential exposure risks. The assessment will be conducted at:
- Initial assessment before care services begin.
- Regularly reviewed as part of care plan updates.
- Whenever significant health or environmental changes occur.
Factors Considered in the Infection Risk Assessment:
1. Underlying Health Conditions
Certain health conditions increase the likelihood of infections. Our risk assessment will consider:
- Weakened immune systems (e.g., individuals receiving chemotherapy, immunosuppressive drugs, or those with HIV/AIDS).
- Chronic illnesses such as diabetes, respiratory conditions (COPD, asthma), and heart disease, which increase vulnerability to infections.
- Post-surgical recovery or presence of open wounds, pressure sores, or intravenous lines.
- Conditions requiring frequent medical interventions, such as dialysis or catheterisation.
2. Environmental Risks
The service user’s living environment plays a significant role in infection control. Risk factors include:
- Shared living spaces (e.g., care homes, supported living accommodations).
- Poor ventilation in the home, leading to airborne infection risks.
- Hygiene concerns such as lack of access to handwashing facilities or poor waste disposal.
- Presence of pets that may carry bacteria or parasites.
- Household cleanliness and maintenance, ensuring safe food handling and prevention of infestations (e.g., rodents, mould).
3. Contact Risks
The service user’s interactions with others can pose infection risks. Considerations include:
- Frequent visitors, including family, caregivers, or external professionals.
- Exposure to healthcare settings, such as regular hospital visits, outpatient treatments, or physiotherapy sessions.
- Close contact with individuals who may have contagious illnesses.
- Household members who work in high-risk environments (e.g., hospitals, schools, care homes).
4. Risk Level Classification
Each service user will be categorised into one of the following risk levels:
- Low Risk – Minimal exposure to infection risks, good personal hygiene, and no underlying conditions.
- Moderate Risk – Some risk factors present, such as mild chronic conditions or regular external visits.
- High Risk – Significant vulnerability due to compromised immune system, frequent healthcare exposure, or poor living conditions.
5. Documentation and Review
- The infection risk assessment will be documented in the service user’s care plan.
- Risk levels will be reviewed at least quarterly or upon changes in health conditions.
- If an outbreak or infection is identified, immediate reassessment will take place.
3.2 Mitigation Strategies
Once risks are identified, tailored infection control measures will be implemented to reduce the risk of infection transmission.
Standard Infection Control Precautions (SICPs) for All Service Users
SICPs are the minimum precautions that all care workers must follow to prevent infection. These include:
- Hand hygiene before and after all care tasks (using soap and water or alcohol-based sanitiser).
- Use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as gloves, aprons, and masks when providing personal care.
- Safe disposal of waste, including PPE, used dressings, and continence pads.
- Environmental cleaning of frequently touched surfaces.
- Ensuring proper ventilation in the service user’s home.
Enhanced Precautions for High-Risk Service Users
For service users classified as high risk, additional measures will be taken:
- Barrier nursing techniques – care workers may be required to wear full PPE (gowns, masks, gloves) for specific procedures.
- Dedicated care equipment – ensuring that thermometers, blood pressure monitors, and other devices are not shared between service users without proper disinfection.
- Strict wound care protocols – sterile techniques used for dressing changes to prevent infection.
- Catheter and stoma care monitoring – ensuring hygiene and early detection of infections.
- Encouraging vaccinations for flu, pneumonia, and other preventable diseases.
Hand Hygiene Protocols for Care Workers
Proper hand hygiene is one of the most effective ways to prevent infections. All staff must:
- Wash hands before and after contact with each service user.
- Use alcohol-based hand sanitiser when handwashing facilities are unavailable.
- Follow the WHO’s ‘5 Moments for Hand Hygiene’:
- Before touching a service user.
- Before a clean/aseptic procedure.
- After exposure to body fluids.
- After touching a service user.
- After touching service user surroundings.
Environmental Cleaning and Disinfection
Regular cleaning and sanitation of the service user’s environment will be prioritised:
- Daily cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as door handles, mobility aids, and bathroom fixtures.
- Disinfection of shared medical equipment after each use.
- Ensuring laundry and bedding are cleaned regularly to prevent bacterial growth.
Additional Measures During Outbreaks
If an infection outbreak occurs, additional containment strategies will be implemented:
- Isolation of affected service users, if necessary.
- Enhanced PPE requirements for staff caring for infected individuals.
- Daily symptom monitoring for all staff and service users.
- Immediate reporting to Public Health England (PHE) and local health authorities.
4. Compliance with the Health and Social Care Act 2008 Code of Practice
The Code of Practice on the Prevention and Control of Infections under The Health and Social Care Act 2008 sets out the legal framework for infection control in health and social care settings. {{org_field_name}} is committed to full compliance with this Code to ensure the safety of service users, staff, and visitors.
Compliance is achieved through clear governance, risk assessment, staff training, and infection control protocols that align with CQC standards and Public Health England (PHE) guidelines.
Maintaining a robust infection prevention and control governance framework
A structured infection control governance system is in place to ensure effective leadership and accountability.
- The Registered Manager has overall responsibility for ensuring that infection prevention and control policies comply with CQC requirements and the Code of Practice.
- A Designated Infection Control Lead (ICL) is responsible for overseeing day-to-day infection control activities, including monitoring compliance and supporting staff.
- Policies and procedures are regularly reviewed and updated based on guidance from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), Public Health England, and NHS infection control teams.
- An infection control committee or working group may be established to evaluate risks, review incidents, and recommend improvements in care practices.
- Infection control performance is reported to senior management and board-level governance structures, ensuring accountability and continuous improvement.
Ensuring effective risk assessments and monitoring systems are in place
Risk assessments play a critical role in identifying infection risks and implementing appropriate control measures.
- Each service user undergoes an infection risk assessment as part of their care plan to determine their susceptibility to infections.
- Environmental risk assessments are carried out in service users’ homes to identify potential infection hazards.
- Staff regularly monitor infection control practices, ensuring that hygiene and safety measures are adhered to.
- A systematic infection reporting and tracking system is in place to log infection incidents, monitor trends, and ensure swift action in response to outbreaks.
- Performance monitoring tools, such as infection control audits, staff competency reviews, and quality improvement plans, are used to evaluate infection prevention measures.
Providing ongoing infection control training for all staff
A well-trained workforce is essential for maintaining high standards of infection prevention and control.
- Mandatory infection control training is provided to all new employees during their induction.
- Annual refresher training ensures that staff stay updated with the latest infection control best practices and legal requirements.
- Additional specialist training is offered for high-risk infection scenarios, such as handling outbreaks, managing respiratory infections, and preventing bloodstream infections.
- Practical hands-on training includes correct PPE usage, hand hygiene techniques, decontamination procedures, and safe waste disposal.
- Staff are provided with regular updates and e-learning opportunities to reinforce infection control knowledge and skills.
Implementing evidence-based protocols for managing infections and outbreaks
Following national guidelines and scientific evidence, {{org_field_name}} ensures that all infection control procedures align with best practices in healthcare and domiciliary settings.
- Standard Infection Control Precautions (SICPs) are applied at all times to reduce the risk of infection transmission.
- Transmission-Based Precautions (TBPs) are implemented for service users with known or suspected infectious diseases, ensuring that additional protective measures are in place.
- A robust outbreak management plan details how the organisation will respond to infection outbreaks, notify public health authorities, and implement emergency control measures.
- Clear protocols for the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) ensure that staff have access to appropriate protective gear, including gloves, masks, aprons, and eye protection.
- Guidance on antimicrobial stewardship ensures that antibiotics and other medications are used appropriately to prevent antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
- Regular evaluation and audit of infection control measures help to assess the effectiveness of protocols and make improvements where necessary.
5. Staff Vaccination Protocols
Vaccinations play a crucial role in infection prevention and control within Supported Living settings. {{org_field_name}} is committed to ensuring that all staff have access to recommended vaccinations to protect themselves, service users, and the wider community. By maintaining up-to-date vaccinations, we reduce the risk of outbreaks and ensure the safe delivery of care services.
Importance of Vaccinations in Infection Control
- Protects vulnerable service users from preventable infectious diseases.
- Reduces staff absenteeism due to illness, ensuring consistent care delivery.
- Helps prevent the spread of infectious diseases, particularly seasonal flu, COVID-19, and bloodborne infections.
- Aligns with Public Health England (PHE) and NHS infection control guidelines.
Vaccination Requirements for Staff
All care staff are encouraged to be vaccinated against high-risk infections to comply with infection control best practices. The following vaccinations are recommended:
Annual Flu Vaccination
- Staff are strongly advised to receive the annual influenza (flu) vaccine to reduce the risk of flu outbreaks among service users.
- The vaccine is especially important for staff working with elderly or immunocompromised individuals.
- Vaccination campaigns will be actively promoted each flu season.
COVID-19 Vaccinations and Boosters
- Staff are encouraged to receive the full course of COVID-19 vaccinations and any subsequent boosters.
- This helps prevent the spread of COVID-19 within care settings and protects high-risk service users.
- In the event of new COVID-19 variants or public health guidance changes, staff will be updated on any additional booster recommendations.
Hepatitis B Vaccination
- Staff involved in tasks that expose them to bodily fluids (e.g., wound care, catheter management, handling sharps) should receive the Hepatitis B vaccine.
- This protects against bloodborne infections, particularly in situations where there is a risk of exposure to infected fluids.
- Staff members declining the vaccine will be advised of alternative safety measures, including the use of additional PPE and training on exposure risk management.
Other Recommended Vaccinations
- MMR (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella) – Recommended for staff who have not received this vaccine in childhood.
- Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis (Tdap) – Ensures protection against bacterial infections, especially for staff handling service users with open wounds.
- Shingles Vaccine – May be advised for staff working with older adults, as shingles can be contagious and lead to complications in vulnerable individuals.
Maintaining Staff Vaccination Records
- A secure staff vaccination record system will be maintained to monitor compliance and update records as needed.
- Staff will be asked to provide proof of vaccination as part of their occupational health assessment.
- Records will be kept confidential and stored in compliance with GDPR and data protection regulations.
- Vaccination records will be reviewed annually, with reminders issued to staff regarding upcoming vaccines or booster doses.
Alternative Infection Control Measures for Non-Vaccinated Staff
Staff who decline or are unable to receive vaccinations will be advised on alternative infection control precautions to mitigate risks. These may include:
- Increased PPE use, such as wearing masks in high-risk settings.
- More frequent hand hygiene and sanitisation measures.
- Avoiding close contact with vulnerable service users during flu and COVID-19 outbreaks.
- Undergoing additional infection control training on best practices for preventing disease transmission.
Staff Awareness and Support
- Vaccination awareness campaigns will be held annually to educate staff on the benefits of immunisation.
- Information on where and how to get vaccinated will be provided, including access to free NHS staff vaccination programs.
- Support will be offered for staff who have concerns or medical contraindications regarding vaccinations, ensuring informed decision-making.
6. Access to PPE and PPE Usage
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is an essential component of infection prevention and control (IPC) in Supported Living. Proper selection, usage, and disposal of PPE helps protect both care staff and service users from the transmission of infections. {{org_field_name}} ensures that all staff have continuous access to PPE and are trained on its correct use in line with Public Health England (PHE) guidelines, UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) protocols, and CQC requirements.
PPE Provided for Care Staff
All care staff will be provided with appropriate PPE based on the level of risk and the type of care being provided. The following PPE items will be made available:
- Disposable gloves – Used for all personal care tasks, wound care, handling bodily fluids, and cleaning.
- Face masks –
- Type IIR surgical masks for general care duties and routine infection control measures.
- FFP2/FFP3 respirators for aerosol-generating procedures (AGPs) or care of service users with airborne infections such as COVID-19 or tuberculosis.
- Protective aprons/gowns –
- Single-use plastic aprons for tasks involving direct contact with service users or contaminated surfaces.
- Fluid-resistant gowns for high-risk procedures or during infection outbreaks.
- Eye protection (goggles/face shields) – Required for aerosol-generating procedures or risk of splashes from bodily fluids.
PPE Distribution and Storage
To ensure continuous access to PPE, the following procedures are in place:
- Central PPE storage and distribution points will be established to allow staff to collect PPE as needed.
- PPE will be stored in easily accessible locations in service users’ homes when regular use is required.
- Care coordinators will monitor PPE stock levels and ensure that supplies are replenished before shortages occur.
- In the event of national shortages or increased demand (e.g., during outbreaks or pandemics), alternative PPE sources will be identified, and priority allocation will be determined based on risk assessments.
7. PPE Usage Protocols
Care staff must follow strict PPE usage protocols to ensure effectiveness in preventing infection spread:
- Correct PPE must be worn for all care tasks as per infection control guidelines.
- Hand hygiene must be performed before and after PPE use using soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitiser.
- Gloves must be changed between different care tasks and removed before touching clean surfaces.
- Face masks should be properly fitted and not reused or touched during wear.
- Aprons and gowns must be changed between service users or if visibly soiled.
- Eye protection must be sanitised or disposed of after each high-risk procedure.
PPE Disposal Procedures
Proper disposal of used PPE is critical to preventing cross-contamination. Staff must:
- Follow waste segregation protocols (clinical waste bins for contaminated PPE).
- Dispose of used gloves, masks, aprons, and other single-use PPE immediately after use.
- Avoid reusing disposable PPE items unless specified in national guidance (e.g., during PPE shortages, under specific decontamination processes).
- Place used PPE in sealed waste bags before disposal in designated waste bins.
PPE Monitoring and Compliance
To ensure proper adherence to PPE protocols, {{org_field_name}} will:
- Conduct spot checks and audits on PPE use among care staff.
- Provide ongoing refresher training on correct PPE donning (putting on) and doffing (removing) techniques.
- Encourage staff feedback on PPE availability and any challenges faced in using protective equipment.
- Monitor and document PPE stock levels and usage rates to ensure sufficient supply and reduce wastage.
8. Reporting and Incident Management
A robust reporting and incident management system is essential for ensuring that infection control measures are effective and that any infection-related incidents are quickly addressed. {{org_field_name}} has established a structured approach to reporting, investigating, and managing infection-related events to prevent further spread and improve overall infection prevention practices.
Reporting Infection-Related Incidents
All staff members are required to report any suspected or confirmed infection-related incidents to the Registered Manager and the Infection Control Lead. This includes:
- Service users exhibiting symptoms of infection such as fever, coughing, vomiting, diarrhoea, skin rashes, or open wounds with signs of infection.
- Any staff member experiencing symptoms of an infectious illness that could impact service users.
- Situations where PPE was not available or not used correctly, leading to potential exposure.
- Environmental hazards that may contribute to infection spread, such as poor sanitation, mold, or pest infestations in a service user’s home.
Reports must be submitted through the designated incident reporting system as soon as possible.
This can be done verbally or:
Email the manager: {{org_field_registered_manager_email}}
Phone: {{org_field_registered_manager_phone}}
Staff will receive training on how to recognise, document, and escalate infection risks appropriately.
Outbreak Notification to Public Health Authorities
If multiple infection cases occur within a short timeframe among service users or staff, this may indicate an outbreak. In such cases:
- The Infection Control Lead will assess the situation to determine if it meets the criteria for an outbreak as defined by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and Public Health England (PHE).
- If an outbreak is suspected or confirmed, the Registered Manager is responsible for notifying UKHSA/PHE and the local health protection team via this link: {{org_field_outbreaks_support_local_health_protection_team_website}}
- Relevant authorities may provide additional guidance, including infection control measures, isolation protocols, and reporting requirements.
- Outbreak updates will be provided to staff, service users, and their families as needed while maintaining confidentiality.
Investigation and Follow-Up Measures
After an infection incident is reported, an investigation will be conducted to determine the cause and assess any potential breaches in infection control protocols. This process will include:
- Reviewing staff compliance with infection prevention practices, including PPE usage, hand hygiene, and environmental cleaning.
- Identifying any failures in risk assessment, reporting procedures, or communication.
- Conducting a Root Cause Analysis (RCA) if necessary to determine whether systemic issues contributed to the incident.
- Implementing corrective actions such as additional staff training, policy updates, or enhanced cleaning measures.
Service users and staff directly affected by the incident will be provided with appropriate support and medical advice, including referral to healthcare professionals if necessary.
Documentation and Learning from Incidents
All infection-related reports will be logged and reviewed regularly to identify trends and areas for improvement. This includes:
- Maintaining a central incident log to track the frequency and nature of infections.
- Conducting monthly infection control audits to evaluate response effectiveness.
- Sharing lessons learned with staff during team meetings and refresher training sessions.
9. Policy Review and Updates This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if national guidelines or regulations change.
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.