Infection Control in Therapy Clinics

Why is Infection Control Important
Infection control is important because it is the best way that we can prevent the spread of many common contagious diseases.
What are Infection Control Practices
Infection control practices can be grouped in two categories:
1. Standard precautions;
2. Additional (transmission-based) precautions.
Spread of infections in physio clinics can be prevented and controlled. Basic infection control protection which must be applied to all clients and staff at all times, regardless of diagnosis or infectious status. Additional precautions which are specific to types of transmission (airborne, droplet and contact).
Standard Precautions
Standard precautions include the following:
• hand washing and antisepsis (hand hygiene);
• use of personal protective equipment when handling blood, body substances, excretions and secretions;
• appropriate handling of patient care equipment and soiled linen;
• prevention of needlestick/sharp injuries;
• environmental cleaning and spills-management; and
• appropriate handling of waste.
Additional (transmission-based) precautions
Additional (transmission-based) precautions are taken while ensuring standard precautions are maintained. Additional precautions include:
• Airborne precautions;
• Droplet precautions; and
• Contact precautions.