Dr Suyin Hor1, Professor Phillippa Carnemolla1, Dr Faith Yong1, Professor Lyn Gilbert2
1University Of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, Australia, 2The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
Biography:
Su-yin Hor is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Public Health at the University of Technology Sydney. She is chief investigator on several NHMRC-funded projects relating to IPC in residential aged care, pandemic preparedness, and healthcare workers' experiences of the pandemic.
Abstract:
Introduction
Infection prevention and control (IPC) in residential aged care homes (RACHs) is a current concern. During the COVID-19 pandemic, implementation of IPC measures such as visitor restrictions, suspension of communal activities and PPE use, were reported to have adverse effects – including loneliness, neglected care, interrupted workflows and communication difficulties – on resident and/or staff wellbeing and safety. To better understand these impacts, we reviewed the literature to identify available evidence around how IPC strategies and the built environment affect the lives of RACH residents and staff, during ‘business as usual’ and infectious disease outbreaks.
Methods
We systematically searched CINAHL, Embase, MEDLINE, Scopus and Web of Science for articles published between 2015-2025, reporting on impacts of standard and transmission-based precautions and other IPC measures, on RACH staff and residents. Screening by title and abstract, followed by selected full text scanning and data charting were undertaken by at least two researchers. The search was begun in 2022 and updated in 2025, using a modified search strategy, to accommodate more recent literature.
Results
We will present a preliminary narrative synthesis of evidence, from articles selected by our extended search strategy, describing the risks and benefits of IPC measures, on RACH staff and resident wellbeing and safety, and strategies to ameliorate negative impacts.
Conclusion
IPC programs in RACHs must balance infection risks with other aspects of wellbeing and safety. The review will provide RACHs managers and IPC professionals with needed evidence to support their risk assessments and decision-making.