Annual Infection Prevention and Control Statement - January 2025
This statement is issued on behalf of Giffard Drive Surgery and Archvale Partnership. Archvale Partnership assumed operational management of the practice on the 1st February 2024. This statement provides an overview of infection prevention and control activities for the year 2025 and will remain valid until the next statement is issued in January 2026.
Infection prevention and control (IPC) is defined as “a practical, evidence-based approach to protecting patients and healthcare workers from avoidable infections” (WHO, 2022).
As a general practice, we are legally required to comply with the Health and Social Care Act 2008: Code of Practice on the Prevention and Control of Infections and Related Guidance (2008). The updated version of the code, released in December 2022, is currently under review by Archvale Partnership to ensure ongoing compliance.
An annual IPC statement is prepared for transparency and is accessible to service users, regulatory bodies, and other interested parties. The statement provides a short review of any:
- known infection transmission event and actions arising from this
- audits undertaken, as part of a quality improvement programme, and subsequent actions implemented
- risk assessments undertaken and any actions taken and recorded for prevention and control of infection
- education and training received by staff
- review and update of policies, procedures and guidance
- antimicrobial prescribing and stewardship
Key Achievements in 2024
- Leadership in IPC
In 2024, Giffard Drive Surgery introduced the roles of IPC Lead and IPC Link Practitioner(s). These team members have undergone comprehensive training to ensure they are equipped to manage infection prevention and control effectively. Throughout 2024, the IPC Link has actively led on audits and supported the maintenance of high standards in infection prevention and control across the practice. - Audits and Quality Improvement
Since January 2024, the practice has completed 2 infection control audits and 1 handwashing audit. Going forward, biannual IPC audits will continue, with interim action plans developed and addressed as necessary. Audit findings will be reviewed in staff meetings, where IPC will remain a standing agenda item. - Cleanliness Standards
The practice implemented a cleaning schedule aligned with the National Standards of Healthcare Cleanliness 2021. Cleaning checklist compliance was audited by Archvale, and staff have received feedback to improve and maintain adherence. - Incident Reporting and Learning
A robust incident reporting system was introduced to ensure significant events are easily reported and effectively managed. Incident investigations are overseen by the Practice Manager. To date, 0 significant events related to IPC have been recorded, demonstrating our commitment to fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement. - Risk Assessments
Ongoing IPC risk assessments are conducted and reviewed regularly as part of the practice’s risk management process. - Staff Induction and Training
All new staff members receive IPC training during their induction to ensure they understand the measures in place at the practice. Locum staff are also provided with guidance on policies and procedures via the locum pack to maintain consistent standards. - Policy Updates
The IPC policy has been reviewed and implemented. Procedures and guidance are currently under ongoing review to ensure they reflect the latest best practices.
Objectives for 2025
In 2025, Giffard Drive Surgery will focus on the following priorities:
- IPC Audits and Action Plans
Ensure a consistent and thorough infection control audit cycle. Biannual audits will be conducted, and any findings will be addressed promptly through actionable plans. - Antimicrobial Stewardship
Conduct audits of antibiotic prescribing to optimize antimicrobial use and improve prescribing practices, ensuring adherence to national guidelines. - Premises Improvements
Continue making improvements to the practice premises to uphold IPC standards and provide a safe and clean environment for staff and patients.
This statement reflects Giffard Drive Surgery’s ongoing commitment to maintaining high standards in infection prevention and control, ensuring the safety of patients, staff, and visitors.
