Infection Control Policy

Introduction

Staff and Management at Dockside Medical Hub are committed to providing high-quality healthcare services in a safe, clean, and hygienic environment. This policy outlines the infection prevention procedures and protocols followed within the clinic to minimise the risk of infection and ensure the safety of patients, visitors, and staff members.

Scope

This policy applies to all staff, visitors, contractors, and patients at Dockside Medical Hub, including doctors, nurses, allied health professionals, reception staff, administration staff, and cleaning personnel.

Responsibilities

All Staff Members

All staff are required to comply with this policy at all times and ensure that visitors and contractors also follow the infection control procedures while on the premises.

Practice Manager

The Practice Manager is responsible for implementing, monitoring, and regularly reviewing this policy to ensure compliance with current healthcare guidelines and standards.

Clinical Staff

Clinical staff are responsible for maintaining appropriate infection control practices while providing patient care and must complete infection control training annually as part of continuing professional development (CPD).

General Infection Control Practices

Hand Hygiene

All staff must practice effective hand hygiene before and after patient contact and after handling potentially contaminated items or surfaces. Alcohol-based hand sanitisers should be used whenever appropriate, while soap and water must be used when hands are visibly soiled or contaminated.

Protective Clothing

Clinical staff are required to wear suitable personal protective equipment (PPE), including gloves, masks, and aprons when necessary. Protective clothing must be changed between patient interactions or whenever contamination occurs.

Disposal of Sharps

All sharps waste must be disposed of immediately in approved puncture-resistant containers located close to the point of use. Sharps containers are emptied safely by authorised personnel wearing appropriate protective equipment.

Cleaning & Disinfection

Examination beds, medical equipment, counters, chairs, and all high-contact surfaces are cleaned and disinfected regularly using approved cleaning products and disinfectants according to manufacturer guidelines.