An analysis of the results of IPC audits at 188 aged care facilities. It was calculated that 43% of facilities did not meet the standards or guidelines for IPC and failed the audit. 95% of these facilities failed to meet the requirements for “environmental cleaning and decontamination.” We discuss these results and the implications for facilities going forward.

Mr Lyndon Forrest¹

¹Bug Control (Aust) Pty Ltd, Gordon, Australia

Method or Actions: Bug Control conducted IPC audits between 2015 – 2022 within 188 aged care facilities to discover an average level of compliance with industry standards in this area. Secondary goals included identifying commonly occurring problems and developing an accessible plan for maintaining an IPC protocol.

Results: It is to be noted that 43% did not meet the standards or guidelines for IPC, they failed the audit.

95% of these facilities failed to meet the requirements for “environmental cleaning and decontamination.”

Specific findings contributing to the failure rate include visible dust and contaminants on bed frames, lifting equipment, wheelchairs, dressing trolleys, and dried faeces on residents’ bathroom equipment.

Conclusion: A detailed specification that includes the cleaning frequencies, methodology and a description of the outcomes expected will go a long way in overcoming the shortfalls. Regular audits enable IPC leads to report and measure quality performance. This allows you to document performance and improvements for IPC in your facility

Background: Aged care facilities can prevent infection and disease among residents, staff, and visitors via adequate cleaning processes and regular supervision of staff. However, an underlying problem is a lack of understanding that regularly enforced cleaning schedules are crucial in maintaining infection-free facilities that ensure maximum health and safety for all parties. This is supported by a recent study that reveals only 23% of aged care facilities operate with a dedicated infection control committee and the majority lack qualified infection prevention and control (IPC) professionals.

Biography: Lyndon is part of the Bug Control team that includes RNs with wide experience and knowledge within aged care. Lyndon has undertaken many audits in Australia and has continued to develop the audit tool to reflect the latest standards and guidelines. Lyndon is a very experienced leader with many qualifications including a Master of Commerce (UWS).