Documentation, composition and organisation of infection control programs and plans in Australian healthcare systems: A pilot study

Abstract

Background: Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) are a significant but preventable threat to the quality and safety of health care. Infection prevention and control programs are central to the systematic prevention and control of HAIs and thus providing safe and quality services. Although essential components of quality healthcare, there is little published research that has examined what programs exist and how they are documented, particularly in Australia. The pilot study examined the documentation, composition and organisation of infection control programs in two Australian health jurisdictions. Methods: Using a crossesectional, observational, and mixed-methods design, the pilot study explored the extent to which infection control programs were systematically and formally documented, the components of the associated programs, and the governance arrangements under which they operate in health jurisdictions from two Australian states. The survey questions elucidate information on the documentation, composition and organisation of the infection control policy and procedural documentation in place to guide clinical practice. Survey participants responded via a 29eelement electronic survey that included the submission of accompanying documentation. Descriptive statistical analyses were performed on the survey data and document and policy analytic methods were applied to the associated documentation. Results: Infection control programs and plans are formally organised and documented in the participating jurisdiction, with strong alignment to prevailing jurisdictional requirements while also meeting relevant national standards. The programs and plans in settings with legislative

Australia’s states and territories Infection Prevention and Control programs – a comparison study

“…Only two jurisdictional programs demonstrated leadership of their program by credentialled expert ICPs. Credentialling in Australia provides a clear industry-recognised pathway, whereby the necessary knowledge, skills and attributes is recognised by expert peers as a Primary, Advanced or Expert credentialled infection Control Professional (29,30). This level of experience is usually associated with better outcomes; however, further study in this area would be useful (29,30).…”

“…However, more than two decades, standardisation has not been achieved across IPC programs. The pilot study by Shaban et al (29) of two Australian jurisdictions examined the documentation, composition and organisation of IPC programs at an institutional level rather than statewide governing programs. This work facilitated a conceptual shift from commonly held, traditional understandings and approaches to IPC program strategies that align with constructivist theories of active engagement of clinicians with a more structured approach.…”