Prevention and control of infection activities are designed to limit the spread of infection and provide a safe environment for all patients, regardless of the health care setting. The consequences of a hospital acquired infection are; delayed discharge, additional treatment, increased distress to the patient, their families and carers, with subsequent problems for other people requiring admission into hospital. Reports have estimated that over a two year period in England this cost the health service One Billion pounds.

Procedures within health care settings carry the potential risk of infection and complications, using basic infection control measures in your every day practice can reduce the risk. We will equip you with the basic knowledge.

The role of human hands in the transmission of infection, both in the hospital and community setting has long been recognised. Handwashing is a simple but most effective method of protecting patients from hospital acquired infections. You will be required to undertake a clinical skills assessment for handwashing (see Assessments Page for more detail).