Infection Control

Infection Control is a very important part of working in the health care industry. It is important for two reasons, the health and safety of the client and the health and safety of the aged care worker. It applies to registered nurses, care workers and domestic/kitchen staff. Even administrative staff need to be aware of basic infection control.
So, what causes infection? We must understand what causes infection so that we may participate in infection control effectively. Infection is caused by pathogens which may otherwise be known simply as bugs! Pathogens include:

•  bacteria
•  viruses
•  protozoa
•  fungi

which may cause probelms if they get into out bodies. Infection control refers to preventing these pathogens from entering our bodies. This may involve staff training and providing adequate equipment to minimize risk.



Transmission of disease occurs when pathogens are spread so we need to develop an understanding of how they can enter our bodies and be spread from one person to another. There are several ways this can happen.

• Airborne transmission occurs when we cough or sneeze.
• Contamination: the pathogens in human faeces may be spread via food or objects.
• Touch: pathogens my be spread by skin to skin contact such as shaking hands  or  kissing.
• Body Fluids: Saliva, urine faeces and blood all carry pathogens that may be transmitted through cuts or mucous membranes fom one person to another.