Infection Control Annual Statement
The annual statement will be generated each year in February. It will summarise:
- Any infection transmission incidents and action taken (these will be reported in accordance with our significant event procedure.
- The annual infection control audit summary and actions undertaken;
- Control risk assessments undertaken.
- Details of staff training (both as part of induction and annual training) with regards to infection prevention & control.
- Details of infection control advice to patients.
- Any review and update of policies, procedures and guidelines.
The Waterfield Practice lead for infection prevention / control is Maxine Fishlock – Practice Nurse, who is supported by the partners and practice manager.
This team keep updated with infection prevention & control practices and share necessary information with staff and patients throughout the year.
Significant Events
In the past year January 2019 to January 2020 there have been 2 events that related to infection prevention & control. Both were needle stick injuries to members of the nursing team.
Audits
An infection prevention & control audit was carried out by the infection prevention & control nurse for The Waterfield Practice in May 2019. As a result, our policy was reviewed and updated and an action plan put in place Staff hand washing audit has been completed. Annual handwashing audits are undertaken with staff members.
Risk Assessments
Regular risk assessments are undertaken to minimise the risk of infection and to ensure the safety of patients and staff.
Staff Training
Nine new staff joined this Practice in the past 12-months and received infection control and hand-washing training within three months of employment.
100% of the practice patient-facing staff (clinical and reception staff) completed their annual infection prevention & control update training either online or by attending a formal training session.
100% of the practice non-patient-facing staff completed their 3-yearly/annual infection prevention & control update training.
The infection control lead attended a training update for their role provided by Louise Forster (the Infection Prevention & Control Nurse for East Berkshire)
Infection Control Advice to Patients
Patients are encouraged to use the alcohol hand gel/sanitiser dispensers that are available throughout the practice.
Policies, Procedures and Guidelines
Documents related to infection prevention & control are reviewed in line with national and local guidance changes and are updated 2-yearly (or sooner in the event on new guidance).