Updated Transmission Based Precautions guidance published for health and care settings
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).
Reflecting the latest evidence on how respiratory infections spread, the guidance introduces a more consistent, risk-based approach to infection prevention and control across NHS Boards, care homes and wider health and care settings.
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.
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) and respiratory protective equipment, (RPE) alongside strengthened guidance for caring for people who may be more vulnerable to infection.
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 and clinical services across Scotland.
To support implementation, a range of resources has been developed, including a What's Changed guide, frequently asked questions, educational materials, online learning modules and risk assessment tools.
Further information and supporting resources are available through the National Infection Prevention and Control Manual and the Care Home Infection Prevention and Control Manual.
