INFECTION AND CROSS CONTAMINATION POLICY

Introduction:
This infection control and cross contamination policy is to provide information to you, the client, on how your practitioner manages infection control and cross contamination in our practice.
What is the meaning Infection Control?Infection control in the workplace aims to prevent pathogens being passed from one person to another.  Basic infection control procedures include hand washing and keeping the workplace clean.
Infectious agents can be spread in a variety of ways, including:

• Breathing in airborne germs – coughs or sneezes release airborne pathogens, which are then inhaled by others;
• Touching contaminated objects or eating contaminated food – the pathogens may be spread to food or other objects, if their hands are dirty;
• Contact with body fluids – pathogens in saliva, urine, faeces or blood can be passed to another person’s body via cuts or abrasions, or through the mucus membranes of the mouth and eyes;

What is the meaning of Cross-Contamination Cross-contamination is defined as the process by which bacteria or other microorganisms are unintentionally transferred from one substance or object to another, with harmful effect.
Personal Infection and Cross-Contamination ControlInfection and Cross-Contamination Control procedures at Seddon Therapies include:

• Hand washing – the spread of many pathogens can be prevented with regular hand washing.  Thoroughly washing hands with water and soap for at least 20 seconds after visiting the toilet, before preparing food, before and after touching clients or equipment.  Drying hands with disposable paper towels;
• Unbroken skin – intact and healthy skin is a major barrier to pathogens.  Cover any cuts or abrasions with a waterproof dressing;
• Gloves – wear gloves when handling body fluids or equipment containing body fluids, if touching someone else’s broken skin, or performing any other invasive procedure.  Washing hands between each client and using fresh gloves for each client where necessary;
• Personal items – do not share towels, clothing, or other personal items.

Our Therapists are required to:

• Ensure they adhere to strict hand washing and drying guidelines as set out by the Department of Health and Human Services and the World Health Organisation
• Use appropriate soap; 
• Keep nails short and clean;
• Cover any cuts or abrasions etc on self appropriately;
• Wear disposable gloves when appropriate such as handling body fluids or equipment containing body fluids or performing an invasive modality such as intra-oral massage;
• Not treat while they or clients are sick.

 
Workplace Infection and Cross-Contamination ControlInfection control procedures relating to cleanliness at Seddon Therapies include:

• Regularly washing floors, toilets, sinks and surfaces (such as tables and bench tops) with hot water and detergent;
• Periodically washing the walls and ceilings;
• Thoroughly washing and drying mops, brushes and cloths after every use – drying mops and cloths is particularly important, since many pathogens rely on moisture to thrive;
• Using disinfectants to clean up blood and other spills of bodily fluids;
• When using disinfectants – always wear gloves, cleaning the surfaces before using disinfectant, and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions exactly;
• Spot cleaning when necessary.

Our Therapists are required to:

• Clean and disinfect massage table and bolsters after each client;
• Replace all used linen between clients;
• Place all used linen in appropriate place eg dirty laundry hamper;
• Keep all areas of the workplace clean and hygienic;
• Be aware of where the First Aid kit is located;
• Not treat clients that are sick;

• Use a disposable spatula to remove produce from jar-type contains to avoid cross-contamination
• Ensure all products are labelled appropriately