“…infection prevention control specialists are essential to keeping the world safe.”
Infection preventionists (IPs) are at the forefront of the battle against the usual suspects, as it were, such as healthcare-associated infections, the flu, measles and so on. But with the global pandemic being a huge threat in every respect, the role of Its is both more important and demanding than ever – something that is acknowledged in this year’s International Infection Prevention Week (IIPW) which runs until the 24th October.
“Join your colleagues and friends in celebrating IPs during International Infection Prevention Week, October 18-24. In light of the challenges facing the world in 2020, this year’s IIPW will focus on recognizing our IPs and the role they have played in keeping us all safe and healthy.”
Tireless efforts of IPs
One organisation that will be contributing fully to IIPW is North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust, which is “…is absolutely committed to patient safety and at the forefront of this is protecting staff and patients from acquiring an avoidable infection”, according to a recent report on the Times & Star website.
The article’s author, Jacob Colley quotes infection prevention and control nurse specialist at NCIC Becky Proudfoot, who said
“One of the roles of the infection prevention and control team is to ensure that staff, patients and visitors are fully educated in what they can do to prevent the spread of infections.”
“If you asked any infection prevention nurse they would all agree the number one thing you can do to prevent the spread of infection is wash your hands.”
NCIC is running a current campaign called ‘Be A Champion’, which urges NCIC staff to be constantly aware of the importance of effective hand hygiene, ensure that the correct PPE is worn at all times, and to adhere to social distancing protocols both at work and away from it.
International Infection Prevention Week celebrated in Cumbria »
The image (above) show a Teal Mediwash portable hand wash unit being used in a hospital.
Portable handwash units – reducing the reliance on gels
The Teal portable hand wash range for medical facilities »
Teal Task Force: quickly set up hand wash units at entrances to isolated wards
The Teal Task Force is a unique fast response service available in the UK to deliver high quality hot water hand washing facilities on a next working day basis.
Fast delivery and setup – every Hygienius MediWash is sited and set up by trained Teal Task Force staff. Each unit is delivered complete with a generous supply of liquid soap and paper towels.