Course Outline
Module 1: IPC Standards What’s New?
- Review of UK IPC legislation and NHS England guidance
- Updated UKHSA & NICE guidance (e.g. 2023-25 updates)
- Key pathogens: Group A Strep, C. diff, MRSA, Norovirus, SARS-CoV-2, and more
Module 2: The Role of the Link Practitioner revisited
- Championing IPC at the point of care
- Liaison with IPC teams
- Case examples of successful link practitioner interventions
Module 3: Surveillance, Audits & Quality Improvement
- Introduction to local and national surveillance systems
- How to conduct a hand hygiene or environmental audit
- Using audit data for quality improvement
Module 4: Stewardship Update
- Understanding antimicrobial resistance (AMR)
- Link role in antimicrobial stewardship
- UK 5-Year AMR Strategy (2024 - 2029)
Module 5: Managing Outbreaks & Incidents
- Early recognition of outbreaks
- Escalation procedures and PPE
- Communicating with staff and patients
Module 6: IPC in Practice High-Risk Procedures
- Aseptic technique refresh
- Line and catheter care
- Device-related infections and bundles
Module 7: Behaviour Change & Championing IPC
- Promoting safe culture
- Addressing non-compliance
- Coaching and peer influence techniques