The Infection Prevention and Control (Including COVID-19) course provides essential knowledge and practical skills for preventing and controlling infections in various settings. Participants will learn about common infectious agents, transmission pathways, hygiene practices, and the specific measures required to manage COVID-19. This course is critical for healthcare workers, caregivers, and anyone involved in maintaining public health and safety.

Learning Objectives:

– Understand the principles of infection prevention and control.

– Identify common infectious agents and their transmission methods.

– Learn about the legal and regulatory requirements for infection control.

– Develop skills to implement effective hygiene and infection control practices.

– Gain knowledge on specific measures for preventing and managing COVID-19.

—

Course Outline:

Module 1: Introduction to Infection Prevention and Control

– Importance of infection prevention and control.

– Basic principles of infection control.

– Overview of infectious diseases and their impact on public health.

Module 2: Understanding Infectious Agents

– Types of infectious agents (bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites).

– Modes of transmission (direct contact, airborne, vector-borne, etc.).

– Common healthcare-associated infections (HAIs).

Module 3: Legal and Regulatory Frameworks

– Key legislation and guidelines related to infection control (e.g., OSHA, CDC, WHO).

– Roles and responsibilities of organizations and individuals.

– Compliance requirements and best practices.

Module 4: Hand Hygiene

– Importance of hand hygiene in infection control.

– Proper handwashing techniques and use of hand sanitizers.

– Role of hand hygiene in preventing the spread of COVID-19.

Module 5: Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

– Types of PPE (gloves, masks, gowns, face shields).

– Proper use, donning, and doffing of PPE.

– PPE guidelines for COVID-19.

Module 6: Environmental Cleaning and Disinfection

– Principles of effective cleaning and disinfection.

– Use of disinfectants and cleaning agents.

– Cleaning protocols for COVID-19.

Module 7: Infection Control Practices in Healthcare Settings

– Standard precautions and transmission-based precautions.

– Isolation procedures and cohorting of patients.

– Handling and disposal of infectious waste.

Module 8: Respiratory Hygiene and Cough Etiquette

– Importance of respiratory hygiene.

– Techniques for preventing the spread of respiratory infections.

– Specific practices for COVID-19.

Module 9: Safe Handling and Disposal of Sharps

– Risks associated with sharps injuries.

– Best practices for handling and disposing of sharps.

– Post-exposure protocols.

Module 10: COVID-19 Specific Measures

– Overview of COVID-19 and its transmission.

– Screening, testing, and contact tracing.

– Social distancing, quarantine, and isolation measures.

Module 11: Vaccination and Immunization

– Role of vaccines in infection prevention.

– Importance of immunization for healthcare workers.

– COVID-19 vaccines: types, efficacy, and safety.

Module 12: Outbreak Management

– Identifying and responding to infection outbreaks.

– Steps for managing an outbreak in healthcare and community settings.

– Reporting and communication protocols.

Module 13: Education and Training

– Importance of ongoing education and training in infection control.

– Designing effective training programs.

– Promoting a culture of safety and hygiene.

Module 14: Psychological Support and Well-being

– Addressing the psychological impact of infection control measures.

– Providing support to healthcare workers and patients.

– Strategies for maintaining mental health during pandemics.

Module 15: Case Studies and Practical Applications

– Analysis of real-life infection control cases and outbreaks.

– Group discussions and problem-solving exercises.

– Applying learned concepts to hypothetical scenarios.

Module 16: Assessment and Certification

– Knowledge assessment through quizzes or written examination.

– Criteria for achieving Infection Prevention and Control certification.

– Certification validity and renewal requirements.