Infection prevention and control: key points for accreditation

Boost your infection control knowledge. This session will cover key infection prevention and control areas for general practice, accreditation requirements, risk assessment, the role of the infection prevention and control coordinator, and what to expect during an on-site visit.

This session is designed to support general practices in meeting the RACGP Standards for general practices (5th edition) by strengthening infection prevention and control (IPC) systems ahead of accreditation.

Participants will learn to identify key infection prevention areas for all staff, with a focus on hand hygiene, use of personal protective equipment, and planning for adequate ventilation. It will outline accreditation requirements and the specific protocols that need to be in place, including how to document and demonstrate compliance.

Attendees will explore practical strategies for assessing infection risks within their practice, supporting proactive planning and mitigation. The session will also describe the role and responsibilities of the infection control coordinator, highlighting how they support ongoing quality and safety processes.

Finally, the session will cover what to expect during the accreditation on-site visit, with an overview of the key IPC areas that assessors typically examine.

This education is ideal for GPs, nurses, practice managers and administrative staff involved in infection control or accreditation preparation. Participants will leave with a clear understanding of how to implement and evidence robust IPC systems to meet accreditation standards and ensure patient and staff safety.

Speakers:

Sara Drew is a seasoned registered nurse and nurse immuniser with a rich background in primary health care, public health, immunisation, chronic disease, management and education. She is dedicated to supporting and strengthening the role of primary health care nurses through workforce development and education. Sara holds a Grad Cert in Infection Prevention and Control through Griffith University and is a member of the RACGP Technical Working Group -infection prevention and control, participating in the most recent review of the IPC guidelines for general practices and other office-based and community-based practices.

Deborah Kerz is a highly experienced Registered Nurse and Diabetes Educator with over 30 years of service across both public and private health sectors. Currently serving as a Nurse Education Officer at the Australian Primary Healthcare Nurses Association (APNA), she brings a wealth of knowledge in acute care and over 12 years of dedicated experience in primary healthcare within general practice. She holds qualifications in Diabetes Education and Management and Certificate IV in Training and Assessment. With a strong focus on Chronic Condition Management, Deb is passionate about empowering nurses through education to deliver high-quality, patient-centred care and improve health outcomes in the community.

Learning outcomes:

• Identify key areas that are examined at the on-site visit
• Identify key infection prevention areas for general practice staff, focusing on hand hygiene, personal protective equipment, and ventilation planning.
• Outline accreditation requirements and required protocols
• Identify strategies to assess infection risks within the practice.
• Describe the responsibilities of the infection control coordinator in the practice