Infection control policy.

At Affinity Podiatry, we are committed to providing a safe and hygienic environment for our patients, staff, and visitors. Our infection control policy outlines our procedures and protocols to prevent the spread of infections and ensure the highest standards of cleanliness and safety in accordance with UK guidelines.

1. Hand Hygiene

All staff members are required to practice proper hand hygiene at all times, including:

  • Washing hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before and after patient contact, after removing gloves, and after any activity that may soil hands.

  • Using alcohol-based hand sanitizers when hand washing facilities are not readily available.

2. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Appropriate PPE shall be worn by staff when providing patient care, including:

  • Disposable gloves for all patient contact.

  • Disposable aprons when there is a risk of contamination from blood or bodily fluids.

  • Eye protection (e.g., goggles or face shield) when performing procedures with a risk of splashes or aerosolization.

3. Environmental Cleaning and Disinfection

Our premises and treatment areas will be regularly cleaned and disinfected using appropriate cleaning agents effective against bacteria, viruses, and fungi. High-touch surfaces and equipment will receive special attention to minimize the risk of cross-contamination.

4. Sterilization of Instruments

All reusable instruments and equipment will be properly cleaned, disinfected, and sterilized between each patient use according to established protocols. We use validated sterilization methods and equipment to ensure the efficacy of the sterilization process.

5. Waste Management

Clinical waste, including sharps and contaminated materials, will be disposed of in accordance with UK regulations for healthcare waste management. Proper segregation, storage, and disposal procedures will be followed to minimize the risk of infection transmission.

6. Respiratory Hygiene and Cough Etiquette

Patients and staff are encouraged to practice respiratory hygiene and cough etiquette, including:

  • Covering mouth and nose with a tissue or elbow when coughing or sneezing.

  • Disposing of used tissues in designated waste bins.

  • Performing hand hygiene after coughing, sneezing, or touching the face.

7. Patient Screening and Risk Assessment

We will conduct pre-appointment screenings and risk assessments to identify patients with symptoms of infectious diseases or exposure to communicable illnesses. Patients presenting with symptoms may be rescheduled or referred for appropriate medical evaluation.

8. Staff Training and Education

All staff members will receive training on infection control policies and procedures, including hand hygiene, PPE use, environmental cleaning, and waste management. Regular updates and refresher training sessions will be provided to ensure compliance and competency.

9. Compliance Monitoring and Audit

We will regularly monitor and audit compliance with infection control policies and procedures to identify areas for improvement and ensure ongoing adherence to UK standards and guidelines.

10. Reporting and Response to Incidents

Any incidents or breaches of infection control protocols will be promptly reported, investigated, and addressed to prevent recurrence and mitigate risks to patient safety and staff well-being.

11. Communication and Public Health Guidance

We will stay informed of current public health guidance and recommendations from relevant authorities, such as the UK Health Departments and the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), and adjust our infection control practices accordingly.