Infection Control Where, What, Why ? Natalie Illingworth Lead Infection Control Nurse

The cost of HCAIs Health associated infections cost the Health service over £1billion per year Infectious diseases circulating in the home and community gives rise for significant concern

Why is it a problem? The constantly changing nature of pathogens to which we are exposed Demographic changes occurring in the community which effect our resistance to pathogens Quicker discharge form hospitals back into the community

Where ?

Areas of responsibility Community Hospitals GPs Dentists Opticians Podiatry Nursing & Residential Homes Patients in their own homes Community NHS staff

What do we do about it ? Community infection control team Monitor infection rates Screen all patients admitted to community hospitals / intermediate care for MRSA Program of training for all NHS staff and private contractors

How ! Essential Steps to Safe Clean Care Care Bundles DOH catheter Project Root Cause Analysis Fob Watches New builds & refurbishments DVD for website

How ! Audit Policies and procedures Link Nurses Close partnership working Home visits Deep cleaning for recurrent C-diff patients

Do we make a difference ? Well within local and national targets Working relationships with partner organisations Educating the public Health care professional support National recognition

The future Rising population in the community who are more vulnerable Shorter hospital stays Increased health care provision at home Common circulating infections in the community can be hygiene related

Future Challenges Good Hygiene practice is the key to reducing the burden of infectious diseases Anti-biotic prescribing Decontamination / cleaning Hygiene promotion

Thank you for listening