management. Policies sighted were current. An infection control clinical nurse specialist plays a key role on the infection control committee (ICC) and is now supported by a newly appointed infection control nurse filling a long-term vacancy at Taupo Hospital. Hand hygiene audits are showing improving results in the wards sampled, with good levels of compliance maintained in most areas. A gold hand hygiene auditor has been appointed in the maternity ward. A comprehensive surveillance programme is well-established and implemented. It covers multi-drug resistant organisms, beta-lactamase (ESBL), hospital-acquired bloodstream infections and surgical site infections in accordance with the Health Quality and Safety Commission priorities. Monthly infection control committee meetings include review of surveillance data and audit results. The effectiveness of the current transmission based precautions was reviewed in detail and confirmed there is consistent practice and good understanding of the correct management of patients requiring isolation. Infection status is effectively communicated between wards and departments.
management. Policies sighted were current. An infection control clinical nurse specialist plays a key role on the infection control committee (ICC) and is now supported by a newly appointed infection control nurse filling a long-term vacancy at Taupo Hospital. Hand hygiene audits are showing improving results in the wards sampled, with good levels of compliance maintained in most areas. A gold hand hygiene auditor has been appointed in the maternity ward. A comprehensive surveillance programme is well-established and implemented. It covers multi-drug resistant organisms, beta-lactamase (ESBL), hospital-acquired bloodstream infections and surgical site infections in accordance with the Health Quality and Safety Commission priorities. Monthly infection control committee meetings include review of surveillance data and audit results. The effectiveness of the current transmission based precautions was reviewed in detail and confirmed there is consistent practice and good understanding of the correct management of patients requiring isolation. Infection status is effectively communicated between wards and departments.