Disinfection 8 - A New Concept in Infection Control

Disinfection 8 is a dynamic model that shows the flow of positive consequences when conditions at a facility support effective infection control. This figure 8 clearly charts the complete cycle that promotes benefits for residents and carers.

The decisive factors for infection control – planning, equipment and routines – act as switching points between the two circles. The top circle follows the chain of health and quality of life benefits for the resident. As the residents’ need for medical treatment decreases this activates the benefits for the carer shown in the lower circle.

UPPER CIRCLE

1.  A good hygienic environment
A high standard of hygiene is vital at all care facilities. This applies especially in elderly care. Our immune systems become less robust as we get older. When the elderly live in a communal setting this increases the risk of infection transmission.

2. Reduced risk of cross contamination
A comprehensive infection control strategy combining planning, equipment and hygiene routines offers the best possible protection. This is the optimum basis for reducing the volume of microorganisms in the environment, and thus the risk of cross contamination.

3.  A healthier stay for the resident
As the risk of infection is reduced, the resident has a healthier stay at the care facility. Care periods become shorter and the use of antibiotics decreases. The physical and mental well-being of residents improves and they become more active.

4. Increased quality of life
Systematically applying good hygiene practices creates an environment with a lower risk of infection, care recipients become healthier and it becomes possible to improve mobility. The positive outcome for residents is an improved quality of life.

LOWER CIRCLE

5.  Decreased need for medical treatment
When residents are healthier, staff can benefit from a lighter workload. Fewer residents require treatment-intensive isolation. Use of antibiotics decreases. Residents in general need less treatment. In many cases they are more mobile and require less assistance.

6.  Healthier staff
Working in accordance with the Disinfection 8 creates a better, healthier working environment. With the Four Cornerstone principle for the sluice room (page 10) and the Clean Hands on Clean Goods rule (page 8), staff are far less at risk from infection.

7.  Reduced number of sick days
As carers are less exposed to infection risks in a facility where Disinfection 8 functions, this reduces the number of sick days. Healthier staff in a good working environment feel more job satisfaction, which helps to minimise staff turnover.

8.  Reduced costs and enhanced quality of care
Following the Disinfection 8 can enhance efficiency and quality of care while reducing costs in the short and long term. Cost-reduction factors include shorter care periods, healthier and more productive staff, lower staff turnover and utilising reusable articles.