Infection control

All of our clinical teams undergo mandatory and annual training on infection prevention and control. We ensure that all of our practice is up to date by accessing an external consultant who is a director within the NHS. The teams are provided with all necessary tools and equipment in order to prevent the spread of infection between patients; this includes the use of gloves and aprons. The staff are also audited throughout the year to monitor adherance to our infection prevention and control procedures. We use a tool devised by the Department of Health so that we have evidence of compliance, and so that it can be used as a training tool for new staff.

If a patient does acquire an infection, or if the nurse suspects that there may be signs and symptoms of an infection, then we will contact the referring consultant or nurse for advice. Depending on the disease and treatment, a hospital admission may be required, but the nurse will always ensure that the patient is kept fully informed at all times, and in the majority of cases, any IV antibiotics can be administered back at home if the patient and consultant so wish.