Published: 15 June, 2023
Infection prevention and control link workers have engaged in a study day filled with learning, open conversations, and a guest speaker. The day proved to be an excellent opportunity for the team to meet face-to-face with their peers who work together to improve infection prevention and control measures across gtd healthcare to ensure the safe delivery of care to our patients. Jane Doyle, joint head of nursing and allied health professionals and infection prevention and control lead, said as members of the team are based at different locations and services it is important to get together and share experiences. “Key to the study day was to share best practices, provide feedback, raise any concerns, review policies and procedures and talk through any updated national guidance,” she said. “We discussed the newly ratified Minor Surgery Policy and the team provided constructive feedback regarding the draft of the Sharps, Splash, Bite and Needlestick Injury Procedure. It was really useful to have face-to-face engagement and listen to everyone’s comments and suggestions on what should be incorporated into the policy. “Also, we deliberated what has been happening with infection prevention and control in the wider environment and across the organisation and spoke about any necessary changes we may need to introduce to continue to provide high-quality care. “Furthermore, a refresher of the chain of infection took place to remind everyone of the basic principles we need to apply to the presence of any infectious disease in practice. Guest speaker Ian Cossen, clinical specialist for Becton Dickinson, demonstrated the use of ChloraPrep for skin disinfection via an interactive session and positive feedback was received from the team. “I look forward to seeing everyone again at the next study day in November. Thank you to the team for the great work they do in supporting infection prevention and control across the organisation.” The study day received fantastic feedback from the link workers who said the event was invaluable.
For more information regarding the role of an infection prevention and control link worker, please email communications.gtd@nhs.net.