Mrs Sarah Gaines-Hill1
1Blue Cross, Camberwell, Australia
Background: Following an investigation of the aged care sector response to COVID-19 in 2020, new legislation required all residential aged care facilities (RACFs) implement an infection prevention and control (IPC) lead role. Prerequisites include a registered (RN) or enrolled nurse (EN) qualification and completion of a recognized high-level IPC course.
Method: To nurture these fledgling IPCs, a program was created to safeguard their success in both the course and the subsequent role. This included ongoing support during the education component ensuring timely completion. Post-graduation dedicated hours for IPC focused work aids with productivity. IPC lead monthly meetings allow for networking, fostering engagement, and encouraging mentorship. Another element is sharing best practices through an IPC Lead team folder. These are just a few aspects implemented to retain membership.
Results: The organization has seen more than 50% turnover in the role since inception. Some successes have been enjoyed with those who have remained. These nurses have grown in a professional capacity gaining respect from colleagues and leaders. Some of the outbreaks experienced have been effectively guided by the IPC lead. Comparatively other RACFs have faced severe challenges with filling the role due to the constraints set around qualification and the course requirement.
Conclusion: While the intent of the IPC lead is justified, a review of the role requirements and limitations are important to ensure a valuable and sustainable program. RACFs must be provided an opportunity to share their experiences and offer solutions that accommodate their needs and abilities.
Biography: I am a seasoned Infection Prevention practitioner with a background in quality and performance improvement. I have worked in California for 30 years in which time I developed an IPC Lead role in an acute care setting using direct care nurses from within their assigned units. The program and a 2-year analysis of infection reductions was presented at a national conference in the United States. I have facilitated several projects to reduce healthcare-associated infections including participating in a research study for reducing hospital-acquired pneumonia in the non-ventilated patient with Sutter hospital network.