The proposed new Strengthened Aged Care Quality Standards: Infection prevention and control (IPC)

Anita Francis¹, Melissa Centofani¹

¹Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission

Abstract:

Infection prevention and control (IPC) is a fundamental component of delivering safe and high-quality aged care. All individuals involved in aged care—including workers, health professionals, families, visitors, contractors, and carers share a responsibility for preventing and controlling infections.

The draft strengthened Aged Care Quality Standards place an increased emphasis on IPC, particularly in Standard 4 (Environment) and Standard 5 (Clinical Care). Providers are required to implement comprehensive IPC systems and ensure that workers adhere to appropriate precautions. Overall, the new Standards offer greater clarity on the expectations for IPC, making it explicit what providers must demonstrate to comply with the strengthened Aged Care Quality Standards. The Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission will also present data and trends in relation to urinary catheter management and catheter associated urinary tract infections (CAUTI).