Breaking the chain to stop the spread of infection

For care home professionals, providing the most comfortable, healthy and stimulating environment possible is of paramount importance. To ensure this is the case, specialist furniture is incorporated to offer additional physical support, while engaging events take place on a regular basis to provide social and intellectual stimulation. In addition, for those with vision impairments, coloured utensils and crockery are used to ensure they remain as independent as possible, while care is taken to prevent accidents such as falls. 

Due to the vulnerable and elderly people that occupy care homes, there is an intense and dedicated focus on providing the healthiest environment possible. For example, there are stringent cleaning and hygiene protocols that require the regular use of antibacterial hand wash, soap and high temperature laundry cycles to eradicate any potential germs or bacteria. This prevents the spread of infections acquired in healthcare settings, which are often referred to as healthcare associated infections (HCIAs). 

HCIAs include common viruses such as influenza and well-known bacterial infections such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus(MRSA) and Clostridium difficile(C. difficile). Affecting more than 300,000 patients each year in England alone,1an HCIA outbreak can significantly impact on the health of an individual and the reputation of a care facility. It is therefore vital to consider the chain of infection to help mitigate the risk of HCAIs in the care home environment.