Infection Control by Engagement and Design
Chris Russell1, , 1Illawarra Shoalhaven LHD, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
Background
A disparity exists between construction design aspects and best practice of Infection Prevention and Control (IPaC). Specifically, divergence exists between design and operations/workflow, functionality and more recently, engineering controls relating to airflows. Engagement of key stakeholders, including IPaC, in collaboration with the Capital Works Team (CWT) aims to allow timely consideration of IPaC, facilitating essential change during the construction planning phase, minimising building impact, and infection risk. Early and purposeful collaboration embeds IPaC practices in the design and functionality of a facility, integral to staff and patient safety. A paucity of quality evidence indicating how IPaC, and CWT collaboration can provide a blueprint for success exists, warranting further discussion.
Method
ISLHD IPaC Team have a representative who holds the portfolio of Capital Works. This level of involvement ensures there is IPaC consultation across all stages from schematic design to building commissioning. This requires attendance and consultation at all project user groups, detailed design to assist in the interpretation of Australasian Health Facility Guidelines that enables designers to meet the specific requirements of the department as well as the intricacies of the end users work processes.
Results
This level of partnership with support from Executive, CWT and IPaC, has enabled meaningful and productive working relationships with key stakeholders, so that when new projects or renovations commence, existing barriers and conflicting factors are mitigated.
Conclusion
This partnership enables ‘Infection Prevention by Design’ whereby infection control practices, proven to improve patient care outcomes, are embedded in building design from the outset.
Biography
IPC CNC working at Illawarra Shoalhaven LHD for the IMACS Infection Control Team. Working as IPC for 6+ years across varies services and healthcare locations.