Infection Control

This comprehensive course covers key legislation, types of infections, transmission routes, and effective control measures, ensuring that learners can confidently maintain a safe and hygienic environment.

For in-person sessions, practical demonstrations of handwashing and PPE procedures are included to enhance understanding.

Upon completion, learners will be able to contribute to infection prevention and meet legal obligations under The Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) and associated best practice guidelines.

Helps support PAMMS and CQC compliance. 

Successful learners will be awarded an Infection Control Awareness Certificate.

Course Contents

Introduction to Infection Control

• Why IPC is critical in care environments
• Types of infections (bacterial, viral, fungal, parasitic)
• The chain of infection

Modes of Transmission

• Direct and indirect transmission
• Airborne, droplet, contact, and vector routes
• High-risk areas and procedures in care settings

Legislation and Compliance

• Health and Social Care Act 2008
• CQC Fundamental Standards
• Infection control policies and local procedures
• Employer and employee responsibilities

Standard Infection Control Precautions (SICPs)

• Hand hygiene techniques (including the WHO 5 Moments)
• Use and disposal of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
• Respiratory hygiene and cough etiquette
• Safe handling of laundry, waste, and sharps

Cleaning and Environmental Hygiene

• Cleaning schedules and colour coding
• Disinfection methods and when to use them
• Maintaining hygiene in communal and personal care areas

Outbreak Management and Reporting

• Identifying signs of infection and reporting promptly
• Isolating infected individuals when appropriate
• Managing outbreaks of norovirus, flu, COVID-19, etc.

In-person addition: Live handwashing demo and proper PPE donning/doffing practice

Course Assessment

• Multiple-choice test (if applicable)
• Practical demonstration (handwashing or PPE use)

By the end of this course, participants will:

• Understand the importance of infection control in care settings
• Recognise how infections spread and how to break the chain of transmission
• Be confident in applying Standard Infection Control Precautions (SICPs)
• Correctly use PPE and practice effective hand hygiene
• Comply with relevant infection control legislation and guidance
• Respond appropriately to infection risks and outbreaks
• Be confident in supporting Infection Control in the workplace