In the homecare setting, infection control is not just a responsibility, it is a fundamental practice that helps ensure the safety of both the caregiver and the client. At Drake Medox, we recognise the importance of home health safety, and the role that well-trained, informed caregivers play in infection control in homecare.  Here are a few things that we believe are important for caregivers and family to know in order to make your home a safe haven.  

Essential guide to home health safety: Understanding infection control in homecare.  

Home healthcare is a vital service that supports individuals in their own homes, with the added benefits of allowing them to live with dignity, comfort, and independence. However, this setting also poses unique challenges, particularly when it comes to infection control. The importance of home health safety cannot be overstated, as it is important to mitigate risks to enable caregivers to provide the best care possible.  
 
Maintaining rigorous standards of infection control in homecare is critical not only for patients, but for the caregiver and the patient’s families as well. This blog is a cheat-sheet for the essential infection control practices that homecare workers must follow, to ensure the highest level of home health safety.  

The foundation of home health and safety 

Infection control in homecare goes beyond basic cleaning, it is an ongoing, multi-faceted process that involves understanding the transmission of pathogens, proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and adhering to stringent hygiene practices. To ensure home health safety, caregivers must integrate certain consistent practices into their daily routines. 

Hand Hygiene 

Proper hand washing and sanitisation is the most effective way to prevent the spread of infection in the homecare settings. Caregivers must always: 

Wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water, for at least 20 seconds before and after patient contact.  

Use alcohol-based hand sanitisers when soap and water are unavailable and ensure that they cover all surfaces of the hands.  

Avoid touching the face, specifically the eyes, nose, and mouth to reduce the risk of transferring pathogens.  

Correct use of PPE 

Personal protective equipment (PPE) is essential in preventing the transmission of infectious agents. Homecare professionals must be knowledgeable in the proper selection and use of PPE. It is important to: 

Wear gloves while providing personal care or handling bodily fluids, ensuring that they are changed in between tasks.  

Use masks, face shields, and gowns as necessary, especially when providing care to patients with respiratory illness.  

Properly disposing of PPE after use and following protocols to minimize contamination.  

Disinfection and Environmental Cleaning 

Maintaining a clean environment is essential to home health safety. Caregivers must regularly disinfect high-touch surfaces like doorknobs, light switches, and medical equipment. Additionally, it is important to: 

Use approved disinfectants and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for effectiveness.  

Be mindful of potential sources of contamination, such as medical waste or used tissues, and dispose of them according to infection control standards.  

Regularly clean shared spaces such as bathrooms and kitchens to prevent the buildup of pathogens.  

Educating the client and family to ensure home health safety 

The onus of infection control in homecare falls not only on the support worker but also on the family and client. It is a team effort where it is the caregiver’s job to educate the clients and their families about common infection control practices in home health safety. Caregivers should: 

Guide clients on proper hand hygiene techniques and educate them on the importance of maintaining cleanliness.  

Encourage clients to stay up to date with vaccinations and regular health screenings.  

Work with family members to implement infection prevention measures, such as monitoring visitors for symptoms and asking them to follow certain hygiene protocols.  

Continuous training and staying current on infection control homecare protocols 

The landscape of healthcare and infection control is constantly evolving, with new pathogens emerging and guidelines frequently changing. Due to this, it is essential for homecare workers to remain informed and educated on the latest infection control practices. Caregivers need to ensure that they:  

Partake in refresher courses on infection control in homecare settings.  

Have access to up-to-date resources, such as guidelines from health organisations or governmental agencies.  

Stay vigilant and are proactive in preventing infections.  

Final Thoughts 

Home health safety is not just about following protocols, it is about creating a culture of care where safety is the top priority. By adhering to proper infection control, caregivers can ensure a safe environment for themselves and their clients. Whether you are new to the field or have years of experience, staying informed and practicing proper infection control is essential for providing high-quality care in the homecare setting.