Mastering Infection Control: Essential Strategies for Hospitals and Care Homes

In recent times, the world has become increasingly aware of the need to halt the spread of infections, particularly in hospitals and care homes. With coronavirus on everyone’s minds, the significance of controlling viral and bacterial outbreaks is at an all-time high. There are two critical areas to focus on: preventing the initial spread of infection and, if an outbreak occurs, swiftly containing and eradicating it.

Preventative Measures

To prevent the spread of infections, hospitals and care homes adhere to standard infection control procedures (SICPs). These guidelines are essential in maintaining a safe environment for both patients and staff. They include:

• Assessment: New patients or residents must be evaluated for potential infections before admission.
• Consultation: If a patient or resident shows signs of infection, seek expert advice before proceeding with admission.
• Safe Management: Equipment and environments should be maintained with rigorous safety protocols to minimise infection risks.
• PPE Usage: Proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is crucial in preventing the transmission of infectious agents.
• Hygiene Practices: Encourage and promote proper sneezing and coughing hygiene to reduce airborne spread.
• Hand Hygiene: Effective hand hygiene is essential, especially:
  • Before and after patient/resident contact
  • Before and after performing any medical or aseptic procedures
  • After exposure to bodily fluids

Deep Cleaning

In the event of an outbreak, whether it’s COVID-19, MRSA, or another infectious disease, eliminating all traces of the infection from the premises is critical. One of the most effective methods for achieving this is through deep cleaning. This process became a focal point in the UK during the mid-2000s when a surge in MRSA cases revealed that hospital cleaning practices were insufficient. Both MRSA and coronavirus can persist on surfaces, but they can be eradicated with proper deep cleaning techniques, which utilise the right tools and disinfectants.

Fogging

Fogging serves as an excellent method for disinfecting large areas within hospitals and care homes. This process involves dispersing chemical disinfectants as a fine mist of liquid droplets throughout the area. The mist not only reduces airborne microbes but also reaches into difficult-to-clean areas, ensuring comprehensive disinfection.

At KDC Food Hygiene Lrd, we pride ourselves on employing the most stringent deep cleaning and fogging processes available in the industry. Our services are instrumental in eliminating surface-borne infections in care homes, hospitals, and other facilities nationwide. To learn more about our hospital and care home cleaning or our infection control services, visit our website or contact us at 0208 245 8850 or fill in a request for a no-obligation quote.