Infection Control in Home-Based Primary Care Online Course-Updated Infection Control Resource

Updated Infection Control Resource

Pdf Summary

The document provides comprehensive guidelines for Home-Based Primary Care (HBPC) providers and staff on infection control during home visits. <br /><br />**Preparation for the Visit:**<br />Staff should gather all necessary information about the patient and household in advance, including travel history and any illnesses or positive tests for diseases like tuberculosis (TB). The medical bag should be organized to separate “clean” and “used” supplies, and disinfected both before and after the visit. Essential supplies include plastic bags, PPE, hand sanitizer, and biohazard containers. Staff should avoid bringing high-risk equipment into homes unless necessary and keep the medical bag secure and clean.<br /><br />**During the Visit:**<br />Providers should wear shoe covers if appropriate and place their medical bag on a clean, elevated surface. Hand hygiene is critical and should be performed using antibacterial gel or pump soap before and after patient contact, and before accessing the medical bag. Single-use items should be appropriately disposed of, and reusable items disinfected before being stored back in the medical bag. Hazardous materials must be disposed of in their respective containers. Blood samples should be bagged and labeled immediately. Providers should wash hands or use hand sanitizer after handling any materials or specimens.<br /><br />**Post-Visit Procedures:**<br />If bed bug contamination is suspected, outer clothing should be changed and washed in hot water. The medical bag should again be cleaned with disinfecting wipes, and biohazard containers emptied once they reach 2/3 capacity.<br /><br />Additionally, the Home Centered Care Institute (HCCI) offers resources like webinars, virtual office hours, tip sheets, and downloadable tools to educate HBPC providers further on infection control and other relevant topics.<br /><br />These guidelines ensure that HBPC visits are conducted safely and with minimal risk of infection for both providers and patients.

Keywords

Home-Based Primary Care

infection control

home visits

medical bag

PPE

hand hygiene

biohazard containers

disinfecting

Home Centered Care Institute

patient safety