Unit 4223-007 the Principles of Infection Prevention and Control

4442 Words18 Pages
UNIT-4223-007 The principles of infection prevention and control Outcome1 Understand roles and responsibilities in the prevention and control of infections The learner can; 1. Explain employees ’roles and responsibilities in relation to the prevention and control of infection As a minimum I need to ensure that I wash my hands before and after each activity. However, hand washing alone may not be sufficient for the activity I’m involved in. When assessing the risk of infection, the chances are that if you are assisting somebody to walk from the bedside to the toilet on the ward, hand washing alone may be sufficient. If, however, I was assisting with the repositioning of a patient who is incontinent, I would probably consider hand washing, gloves and an apron. Once I have performed the activity, I would remove aprons and gloves, and dispose of them according to my organisation’s policy. I must wash my hands after patient contact and before moving on to the next person. If I make physical contact with a patient I was my hands, but if no physical contact is made I use an antibacterial gel which is provided by the NHS. Hand gels should only be used as an interim measure until you are able to perform a proper hand wash; they are not a suitable replacement for good hand washing. Uniforms must be kept clean and tidy, and I wear a clean uniform every day. Tunics should have short sleeves to prevent them from dragging in body fluids when undertaking moving and positioning procedures. I must not go to the shops in my uniform, because I could be spreading bacteria and infectious agents. Personal hygiene is also important in the fight against infection. I must keep my nails short; this also helps prevent accidently harming the person when I am assisting them to move. Hair should be kept clean and long hair tied back out of the way. Watches and rings should not be worn
Open Document