Dr Susan Jain1, Mrs. Kathy Dempsey1, Ms. Nicole Tolhurst1, Mrs. Stephanie Wilcox1
1Clinical Excellence Commission, St Leonards, Australia
Biography:
Dr Susan Jain is the Principal Advisor, COVID-19 Clinical Response and Research Lead of the Infection Prevention and Control (IPAC) and Healthcare Associated Infection program at the Clinical Excellence Commission, NSW. She has a Doctorate in transmission-based precautions and a Master of International Public Health from the University of New South Wales, a Master of Nursing from University of Wollongong, and a range of internationally recognised certifications. She has over 20 category A* publications and conjoint academic at UNSW and guest lecturer at University of Sydney and University of Technology Sydney. Also holds the award of Credentialled Infection Control Professional-Expert.
Abstract:
Background
Infection prevention and control professionals (ICPs) are not new to public health emergencies, but our recent experience has shown that ongoing preparedness is critical to reduce the risks and profound health impacts that result from infectious diseases. Hence, ICPs are responsible for ensuring clinicians are well equipped with comprehensive and robust infection prevention and control strategies to manage any infectious diseases.
Aim
To develop and implement a standardised personal protective equipment (PPE) donning and doffing training program to prepare and strengthen the system for high consequence infectious diseases (HCIDs) response and management.
Method
The Clinical Excellence Commission (CEC) in consultation with the New South Wales (NSW) Biocontainment centre developed HCID infection prevention principle along with PPE donning and doffing guidance and a competency assessment checklist. A video has been developed to standardise PPE donning and doffing.
Results
This program was piloted at a local health district (LHD) to train 24 ICPs and 16 clinicians from the NSW Ambulance. Based on feedback the program was modified and updated to roll across 15 LHDs, 2 speciality networks and affiliated organisations across NSW. An evaluation of the enablers, barriers and lessons learned from the rollout will be shared at the conference.
Conclusion
A standardised and system level approach is needed to arm our ICPs for next infectious diseases challenge. Collaboration and commitment from the management in training the ICPs is important to ensure we are adequately resourced and supported to equip and prepare us for the mitigation of risks during health emergencies.