Carrie Spinks is an expert in infection prevention and control (IPC), whose work advances the translation of evidence into practice across healthcare systems. With a particular passion for aged care, she focuses on strengthening clinical governance, developing sustainable IPC programs, and building workforce capability through applied research, education and collaboration.
She contributes to nationally significant IPC research projects and joins with regulatory and governing bodies, providing insights that inform policy, guideline development, and practical strategies for IPC implementation. Carrie also serves on various committees/working groups, including the ISO standards; she presents nationally and internationally on contemporary challenges in aged care IPC, leadership, and workforce development.
Carrie is an IPC Consultant for the Australasian College for Infection Prevention and Control (ACIPC), in addition she develops content and facilitates the ACIPC Foundations of Infection Prevention and Control (FIPC) program and the Aged Care IPC Short Course.
Presentation Title: Homecare Wound Management
Wound and skin care are critical components of aged care, particularly in the home care setting where early identification, prevention, and timely intervention can significantly impact quality of life and healthcare outcomes. This session explores “The Aseptic Edge”, a practical, evidence-based approach to mastering wound and skin integrity management within aged care, with a focused lens on community and home-based environments. Drawing on the findings and recommendations of the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety (RCH), the session reflects on systemic gaps, clinical governance responsibilities, and the imperative to elevate frontline practice.
The presentation will showcase common clinical scenarios, highlight best practice aseptic techniques, and provide practical tools to empower staff across all levels of care. It will also address challenges unique to home settings, including equipment limitations, infection control, and consumer engagement. Case studies and data will illustrate how structured wound care pathways, clinical escalation processes, and capacity building can reduce avoidable hospitalisations and improve healing outcomes.
Attendees will leave with actionable strategies to embed safe, competent wound care within home care services, ensuring consumers are supported with dignity, evidence-based care, and a renewed focus on prevention, compliance, and comfort.