What is Infection Prevention Risk Assessment?
Infection Prevention Risk Assessment Definition
An Infection Prevention Risk Assessment is used in healthcare and other settings to identify, evaluate, and prioritize potential risks that could lead to infections. The goal is to understand where and how infections might occur so that steps can be taken to prevent them.
During an Infection Prevention Risk Assessment, experts examine things like how patients are cared for, equipment is cleaned, air and water systems are maintained, and staff follow hygiene practices. They also consider the types of patients being treated because some groups (like newborns, the elderly, or people with weak immune systems) are more vulnerable to infections.
Based on the findings, organizations develop strategies and action plans to reduce infection risks. These include updating cleaning protocols, improving staff training, installing better ventilation, or changing how certain procedures are done.
In short, an Infection Prevention Risk Assessment is a proactive way to keep patients, staff, and visitors safer by identifying and minimizing opportunities for infections to spread.