[Grace]

Reflection question: This reading discusses low compliance with IPAC practices by health care providers. Have you always followed IPAC practices in your workplace? What would you recommend at your current or a former workplace to ensure or increase compliance with IPAC practices?

[Kiranjit]

Yes, I always use personal protective equipment (PPE), practice good hand hygiene, and keep my surroundings clean in accordance with IPAC guidelines. I suggest frequent reminders to make sure everyone complies with infection control protocols, easily utilization of supplies, and frequent staff training to increase compliance.

[Shivam]

Hi Kiranjit!
I agree and I believe that most of the workplaces already make frequent reminders to make sure everyone complies with IPAC protocols by putting posters pretty much everywhere in the facility including the staff washrooms and staff lounges, active screening and having self-screening posters at the entrances for anybody entering the facility, having hand sanitizer stations placed on almost any wall in the facility and much more.
I do agree with the frequent training of the staff the most as it is very important to have all the staff, especially the newer staff to participate in group activities that would promote adherence to IPAC eventually.
Great points Kiran!

[Shivam]

Yes, I always follow proper IPAC practices in my workplace whether it was a LTC or even at a client’s home. As a PSW and now as an RPN, I fully understand the importance of adhering to IPAC standards, not just to protect our clients but also to protect ourselves.
To increase compliance in my current and former workplaces, I would recommend ongoing education and refresher training for all staff to reinforce the importance of IPAC practices. For example, at one of my previous workplaces, the management would organize fun learning activities such as crosswords, quizzes, and other fun little games and would give out prizes to the staff who would win. It ensured active participation by all staff members. Regular audits and constructive feedback can also help identify areas for improvement.

[Deborah]

Hi Shivam,

I completely agree with you. It’s excellent that you always follow IPAC practices, whether you’re working in long-term care or in clients’ homes. You’re right when you mentioned that protecting ourselves is just as important as protecting the people we care for. I also like the idea of using games and fun activities to teach IPAC. It makes learning more enjoyable and helps everyone remember the rules better. Regular check-ins and feedback are great ways to ensure everyone stays on the same page and practices safety.

[Deborah-S]

I love the idea that your workplace had to incorporate games and quizzes. Making it fun will help people not have a negative attitude about taking the time to follow proper procedures.

[Deborah]

Yes, I’ve always tried my best to follow infection prevention and control (IPAC) practices at work. Actions such as washing my hands frequently, wearing the appropriate protective equipment, and properly cleaning tools are essential for keeping everyone safe, including both employees and clients. To ensure everyone adheres to IPAC guidelines, workplaces should make it as simple as possible to comply. This involves placing hand sanitizer, gloves, and masks within easy reach, displaying clear reminders or posters about proper hygiene, and providing regular training or refresher sessions for all staff.

[Deborah-S]

I have always followed the IPAC procedures but, working in LTC, I realize a lot of coworkers that like to take short-cuts and not follow the procedures. Personally, I do not want to be the cause of other people getting sick because I did not want to take the time to follow the proper procedures. Also, I do not want to get sick.

[Deborah-S]

I feel like my place of employment does everything they can to remind staff of the importance of following the proper procedures. Posters and signs, reminders on the POC, and staff meetings. I would say that continuing with the reminders is the best way to get others to follow suit.

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