Updated infection prevention guidance published
ARHAI Scotland, part of Public Services Delivery Scotland, has published updated Transmission Based Precautions (TBP) guidance for use across health and care settings in Scotland.
The updated guidance is now available through the National Infection Prevention and Control Manual (NIPCM) and the Care Home Infection Prevention and Control Manual (CHIPCM).
Why the change
The publication supports implementation of Recommendation 1 of the UK COVID-19 Inquiry Module 3 report, which called for infection prevention and control guidance to consider a range of transmission risks rather than focusing solely on specific procedures.
What's changed
Based on the latest evidence, the revised guidance supports health and care staff to consider a range of factors when selecting appropriate precautions, helping to ensure that measures are proportionate to the level of risk.
It also includes updated advice on the use of Fluid Resistant Surgical Masks (FRSM) respiratory protective equipment, (RPE) alongside strengthened guidance for caring for people who may be more vulnerable to infection.
Who's involved
The guidance has been developed by a multidisciplinary group bringing together national and international expertise from:
- infection prevention and control
- respiratory medicine
- aerosol science
- occupational health
- NHS Boards
- care homes
- clinical services across Scotland
Supporting resources
To support implementation, a range of resources have been developed, including:
- a What's Changed guide
- frequently asked questions
- educational materials
- online learning modules
- risk assessment tools
All available through the National Infection Prevention and Control Manual and the Care Home Infection Prevention and Control Manual.
