Importance of Infection Prevention and Control
Preventing, minimizing, and controlling the risk of healthcare-associated infections is a top priority for Rotherham Council’s Public Health Services. Infection prevention and control aim to reduce and prevent infections, particularly those associated with healthcare settings. For example, infections can be transmitted through the hands of healthcare workers or carers.
Key Areas of Work
Our efforts in infection prevention and control include:
- Education and Training: Providing comprehensive education and training in infection control practices.
- Hand Hygiene: Promoting good handwashing techniques among staff and the use of alcohol hand rubs where appropriate.
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Ensuring the use of PPE, such as disposable gloves and aprons, to protect both staff and patients.
- Environmental Cleanliness: Maintaining high standards of cleanliness in the environment, including equipment.
- Infection Recognition and Support: Offering advice, education, and support regarding the signs and symptoms of infection.
- Audits: Conducting Infection Prevention and Control Audits of care provision to ensure compliance with standards.
- Partnership Working: Collaborating with hospitals, public health, and other government departments to enhance infection control measures.
- Outbreak Support: Providing support to care organizations during outbreak situations.
Additional Resources
We are continuously developing this section to include more resources for care providers. Stay tuned for updates and additional information to support your infection prevention and control efforts.