Infection Control

• Disposable powder-free gloves must be worn when giving personal care or when in contact with bodily fluids. These must only be used once and disposed of appropriately.
• Cover any minor cuts with a waterproof dressing.
• Use separate cleaning cloths for kitchens and toilets.
• Wash hands thoroughly before and after tasks, even if you have worn gloves.
• Rubber gloves should be washed in warm soapy water after use.
• Toothbrushes and razors should not be shared.
• Spillages of bodily fluids should be cleared up as quickly as possible, using paper towels or similar and disposed of in a plastic bag prior to placing in the outside bin. Dispose of continence pads in the same way.
• Areas affected by a spillage should be cleaned thoroughly with soap/hot water and disinfectant.
• Do not wear sharp jewellery when providing personal care tasks.

Hand preparation increases the effectiveness of decontamination.  You should:

• Keep nails short, clean and polish free
• Avoid wearing jewellery, especially rings with ridges or stones
• Avoid artificial nails
• Any cuts and abrasions should be covered with a waterproof dressing.

Remove your wristwatch and any bracelets and roll up long sleeves before washing your hands.