Infection Control Policy

INTRODUCTION

Staff and Management at Dockside Medical Hub are committed to providing quality healthcare services in a safe and hygienic environment. This policy outlines the procedures and protocols to be followed by all staff in order to minimise the risk of infection and ensure patient safety.

SCOPE

This policy applies to all staff, visitors and patients at Dockside Medical Hub, including but not limited to doctors, nurses, allied health professionals, receptionists and cleaners.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• All staff must adhere to this policy at all times and ensure that visitors or contractors comply with the outlined requirements.
• The Practice Manager is responsible for ensuring that this policy is implemented effectively and regularly reviewed.
• All staff members are responsible for their own infection control practices when providing patient care or services.
• Clinical staff must complete at least two hours of infection control training annually as part of their CPD requirements.

GENERAL PRACTICES

Hand Hygiene

All staff must practice good hand hygiene at all times, including before and after patient contact and after handling potentially contaminated items or surfaces. Alcohol-based hand rubs should be used for routine decontamination; however, soap and water must be used if hands are visibly soiled or contaminated with body fluids or blood products.

Protective Clothing

Clinical staff must wear appropriate protective clothing when dealing with patients (e.g., gloves, aprons, face masks). Protective clothing must be changed between each patient contact or whenever visibly soiled or contaminated.

Disposal of Sharps

All sharps waste must be disposed of in puncture-proof containers located close to the point of use. Containers should be emptied regularly by an authorised person wearing appropriate protective equipment.

Cleaning & Disinfection

All surfaces that come into contact with patients must be cleaned and disinfected between each patient contact using appropriate cleaning solutions as per manufacturer’s instructions.