Infection Control

Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) is a scientific approach and practical solution designed to prevent harm caused by infections to patients, staff, and visitors. IPC practices help stop the spread of infectious diseases in healthcare settings, protect vulnerable individuals, and reduce healthcare-associated infections.

Our dedicated IPC team works collaboratively across the organisation to ensure best practices are followed in all care settings. Together, we can reduce the risk of infection and ensure a safe healthcare environment.

For Visitors:

• • Wash your hands thoroughly when entering and leaving patient areas.

• • Use the hand sanitiser stations provided throughout our facilities.

• • Follow any instructions given by staff regarding Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

• • Do not visit if you are feeling unwell, especially if you have symptoms of vomiting, diarrhoea, flu, COVID-19, or other contagious illnesses.

For Patients Receiving Care at Home:

• • Ensure your home environment is clean and hygienic before healthcare staff arrive.

• • Follow any IPC advice provided by your care team.

• • Wash your hands regularly, especially before meals and after using the toilet.

• • If you have any concerns about hygiene or equipment, speak with your healthcare professional.

Hand hygiene is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of infections.

How to Perform Effective Hand Hygiene:

• • Use soap and water or an alcohol or hypochlorous acid based hand sanitiser.

• • Rub all parts of your hands, including between fingers and under nails.

• • Wash for at least 20 seconds and dry thoroughly.

When Should You Perform Hand Hygiene?

• • Before eating or drinking.

• • After using the toilet.

• • After coughing, sneezing, or blowing your nose.

• • Before and after touching dressings or medical devices (e.g., catheters).

Patient-Led Hand Hygiene Audits:

We encourage patients to play an active role in maintaining high hand hygiene standards. You can get involved in patient-led hand hygiene audits by speaking to a member of our IPC team or your healthcare teams manager, or following the links provided via posters or emailed to you. Your feedback helps us improve our services.

MRSA (Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus)

MRSA is a type of bacteria resistant to certain antibiotics. If you’re an inpatient, we may screen you for MRSA to reduce the risk of infection. You can find more about MRSA and its management in our patient leaflet section.

Clostridioides difficile (C. diff)

C. diff can cause severe diarrhoea and is often associated with antibiotic use. Our IPC team ensures appropriate management, isolation procedures, and treatment plans are in place.

Multi-Drug Resistant Organisms (MDROs)

MDROs are bacteria resistant to multiple antibiotics. Early detection, isolation, and tailored treatment plans are key to managing these infections.

Vomiting and Diarrhoea (e.g., Norovirus)

Highly contagious viruses like Norovirus can spread rapidly. Follow staff instructions regarding isolation, hygiene, and visiting restrictions during outbreaks.

Measles, Flu, COVID-19, and RSV

These respiratory illnesses spread through droplets and close contact. Please follow guidance on vaccinations, mask-wearing, and hand hygiene to reduce transmission.

Wound Infections

Our Tissue Viability Nurses (TVNs) are specialists in wound care and infection management. Learn more by visiting our TVN Team page.

IPC Research

We are actively involved in ongoing research to improve infection prevention practices. Discover more about our projects and how you can participate by visiting our Research pages.