Infection Control

Streamside Surgery Infection Control Annual Statement 2022

March 2021 – March 2022

Infection Control Lead – Theresa Allsop – Treatment Room Lead

Non-Clinical – Steph Celso – Practice manager

 

  1.  PURPOSE

An annual statement will be produced each year in accordance with the requirement of the Health and Social Care Act 2008 code of practice on the prevention and control of infections and related guidance.

Streamside surgery is committed to providing a clean, tidy and safe environment for our patients and staff. Our Staff endeavour to follow our infection control policy to ensure the care we deliver and the equipment we use is safe and effective.

  • INFECTION CONTROL LEAD

The infection control lead will enable the integration of the infection control principles into standards of care within the practice. They will be the first point of contact for the practice staff in respect of infection control issues.  They will help create and maintain an environment which will ensure the safety of the patient/client, carers, visitors and health care workers in relation to healthcare associated infection.

  • SIGNIFICANT EVENTS

There have been no cases of notifiable diseases in the last year, apart from covid cases. In the event of this happening, all recommendations are followed as per Local Health Protection Agency.

All significant events relating to infection control are discussed at clinical meetings and relevant actions are taken in accordance to requirements.

Covid 19 has had a significant effect on the way infection prevention has been undertaken.

Many procedures have continued to be followed in the last year and currently, with regular guidance and updating from government and PHE, including patients coming into the building, how they are dealt with once in.

Correct PPE is worn by staff in accordance to the latest guidance. Social distancing remains in place in the waiting rooms, and patients are required to wear masks unless exempt until further advice.

  • ANNUAL AUDIT

An annual audit is undertaken by our infection control lead, following on from that an action plan is formulated with a relevant time scale allocated.  As a result of the audit we performed to a good level working within the constraints of an old building, and the added pressure of covid.

  • RISK ASSESSMENTS UNDERTAKEN IN THE LAST YEAR

The practice takes place in annual audit of antimicrobial prescribing in line with the local and national targets. The practice performed well in the recent audit.

Legionella (water) Risk assessment-the practice reviews it’s water safety to ensure the water does not pose a risk to patients/visitors/staff.

Curtains; disposable curtains are used in all clinical rooms and are changed yearly. All curtains are regularly reviewed and changed more frequently if damaged or soiled.

  • INFECTION CONTROL POLICY

Annual review of infection control policy is undertaken, and amended as required.

  • ACTIONS FROM CURRENT AUDIT

Regular reminders and updates of infection control policies, especially regarding covid, at practice meetings or via email.

Ensure fridge failure/disruption policy is up to date.

Ensure environments are clutter free and only relevant and in date stock available.

Encourage annual online training of infection control.

Ensure all staff are up to date with handwashing / gel technique, and clinical staff are aware of 5 moments for hand hygiene at point of care.

Ensure all staff are aware of sharps policy.

Liaise with NHS property services regarding any requirements highlighted in maintenance/repairs/cleaning/waste.

  • TRAINING

Our staff follow our infection control policy and undergo annual online training.

All staff are currently up to date or about to undergo training soon.

  • ADDITIONAL MEASURES FOR COVID

Hand gel is provided at multiple locations throughout the buildings, for staff/patients/visitors.

Social distancing for patients with spaces between seating.

Adequate and appropriate PPE.

Clean down of all equipment after patient use.

Door handle cleaning log

All staff will currently isolate if testing positive to covid.

If there are enquiries relating to infection control and prevention, they will be directed to Steph Celso, Practice Manager.