Common Competency Caregiving

COMPETENCY-BASED LEARNING
MATERIAL
CAREGIVING NC II
Qualification Title
IMPLEMENT AND MONITOR INFECTION

Unit of Competency CONTROL POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
IMPLEMENTING AND MONITORING
Module Title INFECTION CONTROL POLICIES AND
PROCEDURES
QUALITY CARE TRAINING CENTER
3 RD
FLOOR ST. MATHEW’S HALL BLDG. MAGSAYSAY ST. ALMENDRAS
COGON, EAST DISTRICT, SORSOGON CITY
CBLMs on Date Develop:

CAREGIVING NC Document NO.
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Implementing and Develop by: Issued by: Page 1 of 41
monitoring RoMULUS D.
infection control DUNGARAN
policies and
procedures
HOW TO USE THIS COMPETENCY BASED LEARNING
MATERIAL
Welcome to the module on IMPLEMENTING AND MONITORING

INFECTION CONTROL POLICIES AND PROCEDURES This
module contains training materials and activities for you to complete.
The unit of competency IMPLEMENT AND MONITOR INFECTION

CONTROL POLICIES AND PROCEDURES deals with the knowledge, skills
and attitudes required to gather, interpret and convey information in
response to workplace requirements.
You are required to go through a series of learning activities in order to

complete each learning outcome of the module. Each learning outcomes is
provided with Information Sheets (Reference Materials for further reading
to help you better understand the required activities). Follow these activities
on your own and answer the self-check at the end of each learning outcome.
You may remove a blank answer sheet at the end of each module (or get
one from your facilitator/trainer) to write your answers for each self-check.
If you have questions, don’t hesitate to ask your facilitator for assistance.
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
You may already have some or most of the knowledge and skills covered
in this learner's guide because you have:
 been working for some time
 already completed training in this area.
If you can demonstrate to your trainer that you are competent in a

particular skill or skills, talk to him/her about having them formally
recognized so you don't have to do the same training again. If you have a
qualification or Certificate of Competency from previous trainings, show it to
your trainer. If the skills you acquired are still current and relevant to the
unit/s of competency they may become part of the evidence you can present
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policies and
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for RPL. If you are not sure about the currency of your skills, discuss this
with your trainer.
At the end of this module is a Learner’s Diary. Use this diary to record
important dates, jobs undertaken and other workplace events that will
assist you in providing further details to your trainer or assessor. A Record
of Achievement is also provided for your trainer to complete once you
complete the module.
This module was prepared to help you achieve the required competency, in
Participating in Workplace Communication. This will be the source of
information for you to acquire knowledge and skills in this particular trade
independently and at your own pace, with minimum supervision or help
from your instructor.
 Talk to your trainer and agree on how you will both organize the
Training of this unit. Read through the module carefully. It is divided
into sections, which cover all the skills, and knowledge you need to
successfully complete this module.
 Work through all the information and complete the activities in each
section. Read information sheets and complete the self-check.
Suggested references are included to supplement the materials
provided in this module.
 Most probably your trainer will also be your supervisor or manager.

He/she is there to support you and show you the correct way to do
things.
 Your trainer will tell you about the important things you need to
consider when you are completing activities and it is important that
you listen and take notes.
 You will be given plenty of opportunity to ask questions and practice

on the job. Make sure you practice your new skills during regular
work shifts. This way you will improve both your speed and memory
and also your confidence.
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 Talk to more experience workmates and ask for their guidance.
 Use the self-check questions at the end of each section to test your
own progress.
 When you are ready, ask your trainer to watch you perform the
activities outlined in this module.
 As you work through the activities, ask for written feedback on your
progress. Your trainer keeps feedback/ pre-assessment reports for
this reason. When you have successfully completed each element, ask
your trainer to mark on the reports that you are ready for assessment.
 When you have completed this module (or several modules), and feel
confident that you have had sufficient practice, your trainer will
arrange an appointment with accredited competency assessor to
assess you. The results of your assessment will be recorded in your
competency Achievement Record.

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COMPETENCY BASED LEARNING MATERIALS
CAREGIVING NC II
COMMON COMPETENCIES
Nomina
Units of l
Module Title Learning Outcomes
Competency Duratio
n
1. Implement 1.1 1.1.1 Provide information to 4 hours

and monitor Implementin the work group about
infection g and the organization’s
control monitoring infection control
policies and infection policies and procedures
procedures control
1.1.2 Integrate the
policies and
organization’s infection
procedures
control policy and
procedure into work
practices.
1.1.3 Monitor infection

control performance
and implement
improvements in
practices.

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procedures
Nomina
Units of l
Module Title Learning Outcomes
Competency Duratio
n
2.1.1 Plan responses 4 hours
2. Respond 2.1 Responding 2.1.2 Apply response

effectively to effectively to
difficult/ difficult/ 2.1.3 Report and review
challenging challenging incidents
behavior behavior
3.1.1 Assess the situation 6 hours
3. Apply basic 3.1 Applying 3.1.2 Apply basic first aid

first aid basic first aid techniques
3.1.3 Communicate details of

the incident
4.1.1 Communicate 4 hours

appropriately with
4. Maintain high 4.1 Maintaining
patients
standard of high standard
patient of patient 4.1.2 Establish and maintain
services services good interpersonal
relationship with
patients
4.1.3 Act in a respectful

manner at all times
4.1.4 Evaluate own work to

maintain high standard
of patient services

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MODULE CONTENT
Learning Outcome Learning Content Progress Training
Check Duration
1. Provide  Infection control
information policy and procedures
to the work and relevant industry
group about codes of practice
the
4 Hrs
organization’s
infection
control
policies and
procedures
2. Integrate the  Infection control

organization’s policy and procedures
infection  Management systems
control policy and procedures for
and infection control. 4 Hrs
procedure  Transmission and
control of
into work
communicable
practices diseases
 Risk control measures
3. Monitor  Organizational
infection procedures for
control monitoring and
performance training. 6 Hrs
and  Basic understanding
of communicable
implement
disease transmission.
improvement
s in practices

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COMPETENCY SUMMARY
Unit of Competency IMPLEMENT AND MONITOR INFECTION CONTROL

POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
Module Title IMPLEMENTING AND MONITORING INFECTION

CONTROL POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
Module Descriptor This unit is concerned with infection control

responsibilities of employees with supervisory
accountability to implement and monitor infection
control policy and procedures in a specific work
unit or team within an organization. This unit does
not apply to a role with organization-wide
responsibilities for infection control policy and
procedure development, implementation or
monitoring.
Nominal Duration 4 hrs.
1. Provide information to the work group about

the organization’s infection control policies
Learning Outcomes and procedures
2. Integrate the organization’s infection control
policy and procedure into work practices
3. Monitor infection control performance and
implement improvements in practices
Assessment 1. Relevant information about the organization’s

Criteria infection control policy and procedures, and
applicable industry codes of practice are
accurately and clearly explained to the work
group.
2. Information about identified hazards and the
outcomes of infection risk assessments is
regularly provided to the work group.

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policies and
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3. Opportunity is provided for the work group to
seek further information on workplace
infection control issues and practices.

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LEARNING OUTCOME 1: PROVIDE INFORMATION TO THE WORK
GROUP ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION’S
INFECTION CONTROL POLICIES AND
PROCEDURES
ASSESSMENT CRITERIA:
1. Relevant information about the organization’s infection control policy

and procedures, and applicable industry codes of practice are
accurately and clearly explained to the work group.
2. Information about identified hazards and the outcomes of infection
risk assessments is regularly provided to the work group.
3. Opportunity is provided for the work group to seek further information
on workplace infection control issues and practices.
CONTENTS:
 Infection control policy and procedures and relevant industry codes of

practice
CONDITION:
The students/ trainees must be provided with the following:

Workplace location

Tools and equipment appropriate to schedule housekeeping
activities and to monitor and maintain working condition
 Material relevant to the proposed activity and tasks
METHODOLOGIES:
 Group discussion/interaction
 Assignment method
 Competency-Based Learning Materials method
ASSESSMENT METHODS:
 Written test
 Practical performance test
 Interview

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monitoring RoMULUS D. 41
policies and
procedures
LEARNING EXPERIENCES
LEARNING OUTCOME 1
PROVIDE INFORMATION TO THE WORK GROUP ABOUT THE
ORGANIZATION’S INFECTION CONTROL POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
Special Instructions
Learning Activities
1. Read information sheet 1.1-1

Organization’s Infection Control Policies
and Procedures
2. Answer self-check 1.1-1 Organization’s
Infection Control Policies and Procedures In this learning outcome you shall
learn how to Identify Vital
3. Check your answer using the Answer
Information of the Client.
Key 1.1-1
Read the information sheets to gain
knowledge before answering the
self-cheek and then compare your
answer key
After the activities in this LO you

are now ready to proceed to the
next

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INFORMATION SHEET 1.1-1
INFeCTION CONTROL POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
Learning Objectives:
After reading this information sheet you must be able
1. Infection control policy and procedures are implemented by supervisor

and members of the work group.
Infection prevention and control strategies are designed to protect

service users and healthcare staff from the risk of transmissible disease. A
systematic approach to infection prevention and control requires each
health care provider to play a vital role in protecting everyone who utilizes
the healthcare system. Healthcare staff must adhere to infection prevention
and control guidelines and policies at all times, and use critical thinking,
risk assessment and problem solving in managing clinical situations
Explanation of terms used

A
ABHR: See alcohol-based hand rub
Airborne precautions: Actions taken to prevent or minimize the

transmission of infectious agents or organisms that remain infectious when
suspended in the air.
Airborne transmission: A means of spreading infection in which airborne

droplet nuclei are inhaled by uninfected people
Alcohol-based hand rub (ABHR): A method of hand hygiene that includes

an alcohol containing preparation designed for application to the hands for
reducing the number of
viable microorganisms on the hands. ABHR is not an alternative for washing
with soap and water if hands are visibly soiled.
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Antibiotic: Type of antimicrobial agent made from a mold or a bacterium
that kills, or slows
the growth of other microbes, specifically bacteria. Examples include
penicillin and
streptomycin.
Antibody: A protein found in the blood that is produced in response to

foreign substances (e.g., antigens) invading the body. Antibodies protect the
body from disease by binding to these organisms and destroying them.
Antimicrobial agents: A general term for the drugs, chemicals, or other

substances that either kill or slow the growth of microbes. Among the
antimicrobial agents in use today are
 antibacterial drugs (which kill bacteria),
 antiviral agents (which kill viruses),
 antifungal agents (which kill fungi), and
 antiparasitic drugs (which kill parasites).
Antimicrobial resistance: The result of microbes changing in ways that

reduce or eliminate the effectiveness of drugs, chemicals, or other agents to
cure or prevent infections.
Examples include multidrug resistant organisms (MDROs) such as
methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Also known as drug
resistance.
Antiseptic: A germicide that is used on skin or living tissue for the purpose
of inhibiting or destroying microorganisms. Examples include alcohols,
chlorhexidine, chlorine, hexachlorophene, and iodine.
Asepsis: Prevention from contamination with microorganisms. Includes

sterile conditions on tissues, on materials, and in rooms, as obtained by
excluding, removing, or killing organisms.
B
Bacteria: Single-celled organisms that live in and around us. Bacteria may
be helpful, but in certain conditions may cause illnesses such as strep
throat, most ear infections, and pneumonia.

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Blood borne viruses: Disease-producing microorganisms spread by contact
with blood or other body fluids from an infected person. Examples include
hepatitis B and C as well as HIV.
Body Fluids: Blood; excretions like urine, faeces, vomit, meconium, lochia;
secretions like saliva, tears, sperm, colostrum, milk, mucous secretions,
wax, vernix; exudates and transudates like lymphatic, pleural fluid,
cerebrospinal fluid, ascitis fluid, articular fluid, pus (except sweat); organic
samples like tissues, cells, organ, bone marrow, placenta.
C
Case: A person with symptoms.
Carrier: A person (host) who harbors a micro-organism (agent) in the

absence of discernible clinical disease. Carriers may shed organisms into
environment intermittently or continuously and therefore act as a potential
source of infection.
Cleaning: The removal of visible soil, organic, and inorganic contamination

from a device or surface, using either the physical action of scrubbing with a
surfactant or detergent and water or an energy based process with
appropriate chemical agents.
Clostridium difficile: An anaerobic, gram-positive, spore-forming bacillus

that can cause diarrhea and other intestinal diseases when competing
bacteria in the gut are diminished by
antibiotics.
Clostridium difficile-associated Disease (CDAD): An intestinal illness

caused by toxins that are produced by a specific type of bacteria named
Clostridium difficile.
Contact precautions: Type of transmission-based precautions that requires

barrier precautions for direct contact with resident or objects/surfaces
contaminated with an
infectious agent.
Contamination: The presence of an infectious agent on a body surface or

on clothes, gowns, gloves, bedding, furniture, computer keyboards, or other
inanimate objects that may be capable of producing disease or infection

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Colonization: The presence of micro-organisms at a body site(s) without
presence of symptoms or clinical signs of illness or infection. Colonisation
may be a form of carriage and is a potential method of transmission.
Commensal: A micro-organism resident in or on a body site without
causing clinical infection.
Communicable period: The time in the natural history of an infection

during which transmission may take place.
Contact: An exposed individual who might have been infected through

transmission from another host or the environment.
D
Decontamination: A process or treatment that renders a medical device,
instrument, or environmental surface safe to handle because it is no longer
capable of transmitting particles of infectious material.
Disinfectant: A chemical agent used on inanimate (non-living) objects to

destroy virtually all recognized pathogenic microorganisms, but not
necessarily all microbial forms (e.g.,
bacterial spores).
Disinfection: The destruction of pathogenic and other kinds of

microorganisms by physical or chemical means. Disinfection is less lethal
than sterilization, because it destroys most recognized pathogenic
microorganisms, but not necessarily all microbial forms, such as bacterial
spores.
Droplet precautions: Actions designed to reduce and prevent the

transmission of pathogens spread through close respiratory or mucous
membrane contact with respiratory secretions.
Droplets: Small particles of moisture that may be generated when a person

coughs or sneezes or when water is converted to a fine mist by an aerator or
shower head. Droplets may contain infectious microorganisms and tend to
quickly settle out from the air; therefore, risk of disease transmission is
generally limited to persons in close proximity to the droplet source
E
Endemic: The usual level or presence of an agent or disease in a defined
population during a given period.
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Endogenous infection: Micro-organisms originating from the service user’s
own body which cause harm in another body site.
Epidemic: An unusual, higher than expected level of infection or disease by
a common agent in a defined population in a given period.
Exogenous infection: Micro-organisms originating from a source or

reservoir which are transmitted by any mechanism to a person, i.e. contact
or airborne routes.
F
FFP3 Mask: Protection class FFP3 respirator masks offer maximum
protection from breathing air pollution. The total leakage may amount to a
maximum of 5% and they must filter 99% of all particles measuring up to
0.6 μm. This kind of mask also filters poisonous, oncogenic and radioactive
particles.
Flora: Micro-organisms resident in an environmental/body site.

Hand care: Actions to prevent skin irritation.
G
Gastroenteritis: Inflammation of the stomach and the intestines that
causes symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Gastrointestinal (GI) infection: See gastroenteritis
H
Hand hygiene: A general term that applies the following: 1) hand washing
with antimicrobial/non-antimicrobial soap and water or 2) antiseptic hand
rub (waterless antiseptic product, most often alcohol based, rubbed on all
surfaces of hands).
Healthcare-associated infection (HAI): An infection that develops in a

patient who is cared for in any setting where healthcare is delivered and is
related to receiving health care. Formerly known as nosocomial infection
Hypochlorite: A chlorine (bleach) based disinfectant.
I
Immunization: The process or procedure by which a subject is rendered
immune, or resistant to a specific disease. This term is often used

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interchangeably with vaccination or inoculation, although the act of
inoculation/vaccination does not always result in immunity.
Immunocompromised: Those whose immune mechanisms are deficient

because of congenital or acquired immunologic disorders (e.g., human
immunodeficiency virus [HIV] infection), chronic diseases (e.g., diabetes
mellitus, cancer, emphysema), malnutrition, or immunosuppressive therapy
of another disease process.
Infection: The invasion of the body by pathogenic microorganisms and their

multiplication which can lead to tissue damage and disease.
Influenza: Also known as flu. A serious and sometimes deadly respiratory

infection that can spread quickly in a community.
Invasive procedure: A medical procedure that involves entering the body,

usually by cutting or puncturing the skin or by inserting instruments into
the body.
L
Latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI): A condition in which living tubercle
bacilli (M. tuberculosis) are present in the body but the disease is not
clinically active
M
Mask: A term that applies collectively to items used to cover the nose and
mouth and includes both procedure masks and surgical masks.
Microorganisms: An organism that can be seen only with the aid of a

microscope and that typically consists of only a single cell. Microorganisms
include bacteria, fungi, parasites, and viruses.
MRSA: See methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus.
S
Safety needle device- Any device designed to reduce the risk of injury
associated with acontaminated needle. This may include needle-free devices
or mechanisms on a needle,
such as an automated re-sheathing device, that cover the needle
immediately after use.

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N
Norovirus: A very contagious virus transmitted from person-to-person or via
contaminated food, water, or objects, causing outbreaks of vomiting and
diarrhea.
Nosocomial infection: See healthcare-associated infection
Nitrile: A synthetic rubber made from organic compounds and cyanide.
O
Outbreak: Two or more epidemiologically linked cases of infection caused by
the same micro-organism in place and/or time.
P
Particle filter respirator (PFR): Facemasks which are designed to protect
the wearer from inhaling small airborne particles, including
microorganisms. They are made to defined performance standards that
include filtration efficiency. To be effective they must be fitted close to the
face to minimize leakage.
Personal protective equipment (PPE): A variety of barriers used alone or in

combination to protect mucous membranes, skin, and clothing from contact
with infectious agents. PPE includes gloves, masks, respirators, goggles, face
shields, and gowns.
Post-exposure Prophylaxis (PEP): Drug treatment regimen administered as

soon as possible after an occupational exposure where there is indication of
HIV to reduce the risk of acquisition.
R
Reservoir: Any animate or inanimate focus in the environment in which an
infectious agent
may survive and multiply and which may act as a potential source of
infection.
S
Seroconversion: The development of antibodies not previously present
resulting from a primary infection.
Sharps: Instruments used in delivering healthcare that can inflict a

penetrating injury, e.g.needles, lancets and scalpels.
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Sharps injury: An injury that results in a sharp instrument/object, e.g.
needle, scalpel, cutting or puncturing the skin.
Single Use: indicates that the device can only be used once and then must
be discarded:
Source: Place where micro-organisms are growing or have grown.

Sporadic case: A single case which has not apparently been associated with
other cases, excreters or carriers in the same period of time.
Sterile: Free from all living micro-organisms for the purpose of the item.
Sterilization: A process that removes or destroys all micro-organisms

including bacterial
spores.
Standard precautions: A group of infection prevention practices that apply

to all patients, regardless of infection status. Standard precautions is based
on the principle that all blood, body fluids, secretions, excretions except
sweat, non-intact skin, and mucous membranes may contain transmissible
infectious agents. Standard precautions include hand hygiene, and
depending on the anticipated exposure, use of gloves, gown, mask, eye
protection, or face shield. Also, equipment or items in the patient
environment likely to have been contaminated with infectious fluids must be
handled in a manner to prevent transmission of infectious agents. Formerly
known as universal precautions.
Surgical masks: A mask that covers the mouth and nose to prevent large
droplets from the wearer being expelled into the environment. As these
masks are generally also fluid repellent, they also provide some protection
for the wearer against exposure of mucous membranes to splashes of
blood/body fluid.
T
Transmission: The method by which any potentially infecting agent is
spread to another host.
Transmission-based precautions: A set of practices that apply to patients

with documented or suspected infection or colonization with highly
transmissible or epidemiologically important pathogens for which

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precautions beyond the standard precautions are needed to interrupt
disease transmission.
V
Vaccine: A product that produces immunity therefore protecting the body
from the disease. Vaccines can be administered by injection, mouth, or
aerosol.
Virus: A microorganism smaller than bacteria that cannot grow or

reproduce apart from a
living cell. Examples include influenza, chicken pox, hepatitis, and HIV.
CENTRAL PRINCIPLES OF INFECTION CONTROL

Hand Hygiene
Introduction
Hand hygiene is now regarded as one of the most important elements
of infection control activities, and is required even if gloves are worn. Most
health care associated infections (HAIs) are preventable through good hand
hygiene – cleaning hands at the right times and in the right way. (WHO,
2012)
Hands are the most common means in which microorganisms,
particularly bacteria, can be spread and subsequently cause infection,
especially for those patients who are most susceptible. Staff must consider
the potential/actual hazards that have or might be encountered during the
course of their duties and how this subsequent hazard may present as
potential/actual contamination of their hands and risk to service users,
visitors and other staff. This assessment must inform the hand hygiene
procedure undertaken by staff to eliminate the risks of cross-infection. Staff
must assume that every person they encounter could be carrying potentially
harmful microorganisms that could be transmitted and cause harm to
others. As such, staff must carry out effective hand hygiene at the correct
point in care as a standard infection control precaution. Hand hygiene is
one of the elements of Standard Infection Control Precautions. Everyone has
an important part to play in improving patient safety and contributing to
breaking the chain of infection at every opportunity. To ensure maximum
safety hand hygiene has to be performed:
1. Using an effective product
2. By applying the correct technique
3. At precise moments in time (J.Storr, WHO 2008) 2.

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The microbiology of the hands There are two groups of micro-organisms
on the hands:
Transient skin flora
 Carried temporarily
 Micro-organisms acquired on the hands through contact with other
sites on the same individual, from other people, or from the
environment
 Easily acquired by touch, and readily transferred to the next person or
surface touched, so may be responsible for the transmission of
infection.
 Removal of transient micro-organisms is therefore essential in
preventing cross-infection, and their removal is easily achieved by
washing with soap and water, the use of alcohol rub or hand
sanitizing wipes.
Resident skin flora

 Micro-organisms which live permanently in deep crevices and hair
follicles, known as skin flora; most are bacteria of low pathogenicity
Not readily transferred to other people and most are not easily
removed by washing with soap.
 Do not need to be removed from the hands during routine clinical care
 During invasive procedures, e.g. minor surgery, there is a risk that
resident microorganisms may enter the patient’s tissues and cause an
infection
Your Five Moments of Hand Hygiene

The World Health Organization (WHO) has produced a model (5 Moments for
‘Hand Hygiene at the point of care’) explaining when hands should be
decontaminated as described in the table below. Hands must be
decontaminated immediately before each and every episode of direct service
user contact or care and after any activity or contact that could potentially
result in hands being contaminated.
Before Service User Contact WHEN? Clean your hands before

touching a service user.
WHY? To protect the service user
against harmful germs carried on
his/ her body.
Before an Aseptic Non-Touch WHEN? Clean your hands

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Technique task is undertaken. immediately before any aseptic task.
WHY? To protect the service user
against harmful germs, including
the service user’s own germs from
entering his/ her body.
After body fluid exposure. WHEN? Clean your hands
immediately after a risk exposure to
bodily fluids (and after glove
removal) WHY? To protect yourself
and the healthcare environment
from harmful patient germs.
After service user contact. WHEN? Clean your hands after
touching a service user and his/ her
immediate surroundings when
leaving.
WHY? To protect yourself and the
health care environment from
harmful service user germs.
After contact with service user WHEN? Clean your hands after
surroundings. touching any object or furniture in
the service user’s immediate
surroundings when leaving – even
without touching the service user.
WHY? To protect yourself and the
healthcare environment from
harmful service user germs.

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SELF CHECK 1.1-1
INFECTION CONTROL POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
Explain your answer briefly.
1. Transient skin flora means?

2. Resident skin flora means?
3. Can hand washing prevent infection?
4. The use of an alcohol-based sanitizer should not be an alternative to
hand washing.

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ANSWER KEY 1.1-1
INFECTION CONTROL POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
1. Transient skin flora means temporary or is transferred to the surface
like skin as an example. It may be due to a contact from a another
surface.
2. Resident skin flora means is readily available in a surface or has been
thriving in such area and is not transferred from one place.
3. Yes! for handwashing is the first line of defense. First, handwashing
cleanse by eliminating dirt in hand and also given the use of an
antimicrobial hand detergent then it can destroy and kill microbes.
4. The use of an alcohol based sanitizer cannot be an excuse for
handwashing for both are incomparable and provides individual
protection against infection.

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LO2. INTEGRATE THE ORGANIZATION’S INFECTION CONTROL POLICY
AND PROCEDURE INTO WORK PRACTICES
1. Infection control policy and procedures are implemented by

supervisor and members of the work group.
2. Liaison is maintained with person responsible for organization-
wide infection control.
3. The Supervisor’s coaching support ensures that individuals/teams
are able to implement infection control practices.
4. Work procedures are adopted to reflect appropriate infection
control practice.
5. Issues raised through consultation are dealt with and resolved
promptly or referred to the appropriate personnel for resolution.
6. Workplace procedures for dealing with infection control risks and
hazardous events are implemented whenever necessary.
7. Employees are encouraged to report infection risks and to improve
infection control procedures.
CONTENTS:
 Infection control policy and procedures

 Management systems and procedures for infection control.
 Transmission and control of communicable diseases
 Risk control measures
CONDITIONS:
Students/ trainees must be provided with the following:
 Workplace location
 Tools and equipment appropriate to schedule housekeeping

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LEARNING OUTCOME 2
INTEGRATE THE ORGANIZATION’S INFECTION CONTROL POLICY AND
PROCEDURE INTO WORK PRACTICES
Learning Activities

Workplace safety – infection control
2. Answer self-check 1.2-1 Participate in
Workplace safety – infection control
In this learning outcome you shall
3. Check your answer using the answer learn how to Identify Vital
key 1.2-1 Information of the Client.

answer key

next

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WORKPLACE SAFETY – INFeCTION CONTROL
Learning Objectives:
After reading this information sheet you must be able
 Learn infection control practices in the workplace aims.

 The foundation of good infection control.
 Basic infection control procedures in the workplace clean.
Infection is caused by pathogens ('bugs') such as bacteria, viruses, protozoa

or fungi getting into or onto the body. It can take some time before the
microbes multiply enough to trigger symptoms of illness, which means an
infected person may unwittingly be spreading the disease during this
incubation period. Infection control in the workplace aims to prevent
pathogens from coming into contact with a person in the first place.
Employers are obliged under the Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004
to provide a safe workplace for their employees, including the provision of
adequate infection control procedures and the right equipment and training.
Transmission of infection
Infectious agents can be spread in a variety of ways, including:
 breathing in airborne germs – coughs or sneezes release airborne

pathogens, which are then inhaled by others
 touching contaminated objects or eating contaminated food – the
pathogens in a person's faeces may be spread to food or other objects,
if their hands are dirty
 skin-to-skin contact – the transfer of some pathogens can occur
through touch, or by sharing personal items, clothing or objects
 contact with body fluids – pathogens in saliva, urine, feces or blood
can be passed to another person's body via cuts or abrasions, or
through the mucus membranes of the mouth and eyes.

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Assumption of risk
The basis of good infection control in the workplace is to assume that

everyone is potentially infectious. Proper procedures have to be followed at
all times. Every workplace should have an appropriate first aid kit, with at
least one staff member trained in first aid. Equipment such as gloves,
gowns, eye goggles and face shields should be provided if necessary.
Workplace infection control – personal hygiene practices
Infection control procedures relating to good personal hygiene include:
 hand washing – the spread of many pathogens can be prevented with

regular hand washing. Thoroughly wash your hands with water and
soap for at least 15 seconds after visiting the toilet, before preparing
food, and after touching clients or equipment. Dry your hands with
disposable paper towels
 unbroken skin – intact and healthy skin is a major barrier to
pathogens. Cover any cuts or abrasions with a waterproof dressing
 gloves – wear gloves if you are handling body fluids or equipment
containing body fluids, if you are touching someone else's broken skin
or mucus membrane, or performing any other invasive procedure.
Wash your hands between each client and use fresh gloves for each
client where necessary
 personal items – don't share towels, clothing, razors, toothbrushes,
shavers or other personal items.
Food preparation and workplace infection control
When preparing food:
 Wash your hands before and after handling food.

 Avoid touching your hair, nose or mouth.
 Keep hot food hot and cold food cold.
 Use separate storage, utensils and preparation surfaces for cooked
and uncooked foods.
 Wash all utensils and preparation surfaces thoroughly with hot water
and detergent after use.

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Infection control and workplace cleanliness
Infection control procedures relating to cleanliness in the workplace include:
 regularly washing the floors, bathrooms and surfaces (such as tables

and bench tops) with hot water and detergent
 periodically washing the walls and ceilings
 thoroughly washing and drying mops, brushes and cloths after every
use – drying mops and cloths is particularly important, since many
pathogens rely on moisture to thrive
 using disinfectants to clean up blood and other spills of bodily fluids
 when using disinfectants – always wearing gloves, cleaning the
surfaces before using the disinfectant, and always following the
manufacturer's instructions exactly
 spot cleaning when necessary.
Dealing with spills of body fluids
Examples of body fluids include blood, saliva, urine and feces. When dealing
with spills of body fluids, infection control procedures need to be followed
carefully. Always:
 Isolate the area.

 Wear gloves, a plastic apron and eye protection, such as goggles.
 Soak up the fluid with disposable paper towels, or cover the spill with
a granular chlorine-releasing agent for a minimum of 10 minutes.
Scoop up granules and waste using a piece of cardboard (or similar),
place in a plastic bag and dispose of appropriately.
 Mix one part bleach to 10 parts water and apply to the area for 10
minutes.
 Wash the area with hot water and detergent.
 Dry the area.
 Dispose of paper toweling and gloves appropriately.
 Wash your hands.
 Rinse any contaminated clothing in cold running water, soak in
bleach solution for half an hour, then wash separately from other
clothing or linen with hot water and detergent.

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Infection control – disposing of infectious waste
To dispose of infectious waste that has been contaminated with blood or

other body fluids:
 Wear heavy duty gloves.

 Place waste in plastic bags marked 'infectious waste'.
 Dispose of waste in accordance with EPA guidance.
Workplace infection control – handling contaminated sharps
Infection control procedures when handling needles and other sharp

contaminated objects include:
 Never attempt to re-cap or bend used needles.

 Handle by the barrel.
 Place in an appropriate puncture-proof container (that meets the
Australian and New Zealand Standards AS 4031:1992 and AS/NZS
4261:1994) – this will be yellow, labelled 'Danger contaminated
sharps' and marked with a black biohazard symbol.
Infection control – occupational exposure to body fluids
If you come in contact with blood or body fluids:
 Flush the area with running water.

 Wash the area with plenty of warm water and soap.
 Report the incident to the appropriate staff member.
 Record the incident via the Disease/Injury/Near Miss/Accident
(DINMA) reporting procedure.
 Seek medical advice.
Employers and occupational health and safety representatives should

investigate all incidents involving contact with blood or body fluids, and take
action to prevent a similar incident from happening again.

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SELF CHECK 1.2-1
TRUE OR FALSE
1. The basis of good infection control in the workplace is to
assume that everyone is potentially infectious.
2. Saliva, urine, feces are examples of body fluids that may harbor
an infectious microorganism.
3. When using disinfectant on walls in workplace, wearing gloves
may not be necessary.
4. Seeking medical advise when exposed to body fluids in
workplace is probable.
5. Puncture resistant containers for sharps and needles is labeled
yellow with a biohazard sign.

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SELF CHECK 1.2-1
1. True
2. True
3. False
4. True
5. True

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LO3. MONITOR INFECTION CONTROL PERFORMANCE AND
IMPLEMENT IMPROVEMENTS IN PRACTICES
1. Infection control hazardous events are investigated promptly to

identify their cause in accordance with organization policy and
procedures.
2. Work procedures to control infection risks are monitored to ensure
compliance.
3. Work procedures are regularly reviewed and adjusted to ensure
improvements in infection control practice.
4. Supervisor provides feedback to team and individuals on
compliance issues, changes in work procedures and infection
control outcomes.
5. Training in work procedures is provided as required to ensure
maintenance of infection control standards.
6. Inadequacies in work procedures and infection control measures
are identified, corrected or reported to designated personnel.
7. Records of infection control risks and incidents are accurately
maintained as required.
8. Aggregate infection control information reports are used to identify
hazards, to monitor an improve risk control methods and to
indicate training needs.
CONTENTS:
 Organizational procedures for monitoring and training.

 Basic understanding of communicable disease transmission.
CONDITIONS:
Students/ trainees must be provided with the following:
 Workplace location
 Tools and equipment appropriate to schedule housekeeping
METHODOLOGIES:

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 Lecture/ discussion
 Group discussion
 Return demo
 Film viewing
 Surface learning
ASSESSMENT METHODS:
 Written examination
 Interview/ oral examination
 Practical examination
 Direct observation

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LEARNING OUTCOME 3: MONITOR INFECTION CONTROL
PERFORMANCE AND IMPLEMENT IMPROVEMENTS IN PRACTICES
Learning Activities

Imfection Control Best Practices
2. Answer self-check 1.3-1 Participate in
Infection Control Best Practices
In this learning outcome you shall
3. Check your answer using the answer learn how to Identify Vital
key 1.3-1 Information of the Client.

answer key

next

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INFECTION CONTROL BEST PRACTICES
Hospital associated infections (HAIs) are a serious risk to patients,

staff and visitors. In the UK, it is estimated that over 300,000 patients
acquire HAIs every year, and at a cost of millions of pounds for hospital
trusts.
The application of infection prevention and control (IPC) in hospitals is

crucial to the effective management of patient care and reducing the
incidence of HAIs. Effective IPC activities include hand hygiene, use of
personal protective equipment (PPE) and environmental decontamination.
But how can hospitals ensure staff follow best practice at all times?
Continually educate staff

Effective infection control can only be achieved if all staff display the
appropriate IPC skills and behaviors at all times.
In order to act responsibly, all staff must:
 Understand the impact of IPC practice

 Be aware of policies and procedures
 Attend mandatory training sessions
Staff should undertake training when they commence employment and on a

continual basis. Training should cover the following:
 Hand hygiene
 The use of PPE
 The safe use and disposal of sharps
 Safe handling and disposal of clinical waste
 Spillage of blood and bodily fluids
 Decontamination of equipment and the environment
 Safe management of linen
Set clear processes and policies

The Health and Social Care Act 2008: Code of Practice on the
Prevention and Control of Infections and Related Guidance sets out the
responsibilities of hospitals in England in relation to the prevention and
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control of HAIs. The standard states the need for systems to manage and
monitor infection control and to provide secure isolation facilities, amongst
many others. But each hospital or Trust will have their own policies and
processes that staff must follow, and it’s important that these are widely
understood by all staff.
Create a cleanliness culture

Leadership must champion cleanliness at every level to ensure all staff
follow best practice at all times. This requires a ‘board-to-ward’ culture,
where everyone understands their role in infection control. Take a proactive
approach in setting personal HAI goals and cleanliness objectives, then
carry out individual appraisals. Staff should also be encouraged to review,
challenge and feedback on behaviours and practice.
Hold regular audits

The aim of a clinical audit is to ensure best practice is being implemented.
The majority of audits can be undertaken using simple audit tools and can
be carried out by anyone at any time.
Examples of infection control audits that may be undertaken on a weekly or

monthly basis include:
Hand hygiene observation audits – check for compliance with the 5

Moments for Hand Hygiene approach and hand decontamination at the
point of care
Observational audit of compliance – with a Bare Below the Elbows policy (no
wristwatches, bracelets, long sleeves, white coats or ties)
MRSA screening within 24 hours of admission to hospital

Examples of larger infection control audits that may be undertaken annually
or more frequently include:
Hospital-wide audit of compliance with the safe handling and disposal of

sharps
Compliance with MRSA screening – for example, admission and long-stay

screens, including whether staff are obtaining the correct clinical specimens
and screening within the correct timeframe
For audits to be effective, the results must be shared with staff promptly to
ensure they are aware of – and can rectify – any issues.
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Summary
Infection prevention and control is the responsibility of all staff working

within the hospital, from doctors and nurses to administrative staff and
cleaners. Ultimately, ensuring effective infection control comes down to four
key areas:
People – all staff must be trained in IPC best practice

Processes – appropriate IPC processes and policies must be set in place and
understood by all staff
Culture – the hospital should maintain a cleanliness culture where everyone
is compelled to work together to fight against HAIs
Performance – regular audits ensure staff are exhibiting the appropriate
behaviours at all times and allows for any issues to be rectified.

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SELF – CHECK 1.3-1
Enumeration:
1. In the conduct of continuous training to maintain and
improve infection control practices, there are things that
needs to be learned and re learned, what are those best
practices.

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ANSWER KEY 1.3-1
1. Best practices for training and retraining
 The use of PPE
 The safe use and disposal of sharps
 Safe handling and disposal of clinical waste
 Spillage of blood and bodily fluids
 Decontamination of equipment and the environment
 Safe management of linen

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COMPETENCY-BASED LEARNING

IMPLEMENT AND MONITOR INFECTION

CBLMs on Date Develop:

Welcome to the module on IMPLEMENTING AND MONITORING

The unit of competency IMPLEMENT AND MONITOR INFECTION

You are required to go through a series of learning activities in order to

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

If you can demonstrate to your trainer that you are competent in a

 Most probably your trainer will also be your supervisor or manager.

 You will be given plenty of opportunity to ask questions and practice

CBLMs on Date Develop:

1. Implement 1.1 1.1.1 Provide information to 4 hours

1.1.3 Monitor infection

CBLMs on Date Develop:

2.1.1 Plan responses 4 hours

2. Respond 2.1 Responding 2.1.2 Apply response

3.1.1 Assess the situation 6 hours

3. Apply basic 3.1 Applying 3.1.2 Apply basic first aid

3.1.3 Communicate details of

4.1.1 Communicate 4 hours

4.1.3 Act in a respectful

4.1.4 Evaluate own work to

CBLMs on Date Develop:

2. Integrate the  Infection control

CBLMs on Date Develop:

Unit of Competency IMPLEMENT AND MONITOR INFECTION CONTROL

Module Title IMPLEMENTING AND MONITORING INFECTION

Module Descriptor This unit is concerned with infection control

Nominal Duration 4 hrs.

1. Provide information to the work group about

Assessment 1. Relevant information about the organization’s

CBLMs on Date Develop:

CBLMs on Date Develop:

1. Relevant information about the organization’s infection control policy

 Infection control policy and procedures and relevant industry codes of

The students/ trainees must be provided with the following:

CBLMs on Date Develop:

1. Read information sheet 1.1-1

After the activities in this LO you

CBLMs on Date Develop:

After reading this information sheet you must be able

1. Infection control policy and procedures are implemented by supervisor

Infection prevention and control strategies are designed to protect

Explanation of terms used

Airborne precautions: Actions taken to prevent or minimize the

Airborne transmission: A means of spreading infection in which airborne

Alcohol-based hand rub (ABHR): A method of hand hygiene that includes

Antibody: A protein found in the blood that is produced in response to

Antimicrobial agents: A general term for the drugs, chemicals, or other

Antimicrobial resistance: The result of microbes changing in ways that

Asepsis: Prevention from contamination with microorganisms. Includes

CBLMs on Date Develop:

Carrier: A person (host) who harbors a micro-organism (agent) in the

Cleaning: The removal of visible soil, organic, and inorganic contamination

Clostridium difficile: An anaerobic, gram-positive, spore-forming bacillus

Clostridium difficile-associated Disease (CDAD): An intestinal illness

Contact precautions: Type of transmission-based precautions that requires

Contamination: The presence of an infectious agent on a body surface or

CBLMs on Date Develop:

Communicable period: The time in the natural history of an infection

Contact: An exposed individual who might have been infected through

Disinfectant: A chemical agent used on inanimate (non-living) objects to