International Infection Prevention Week: How we keep clients safe

We understand that keeping our clients safe goes beyond providing compassionate care – it’s about creating an environment where health and safety are always prioritised.

Why infection prevention matters in home care

Infection prevention is essential in any caregiving environment, but it’s especially important for in-home care, where clients may be vulnerable due to age or existing health conditions. Infections can impact quality of life and even lead to hospitalisations, which is why we follow strict protocols and provide ongoing training to our caregivers to minimise risks.

Key ways we prevents Infections

At Home Instead, our team is committed to infection prevention every step of the way. Here are some of the practices we have in place:

Proper hygiene training

All our caregivers are trained in effective handwashing techniques, safe use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and general hygiene best practices. This training is refreshed regularly to ensure our team remains up-to-date on the latest guidelines.

Routine sanitisation

Caregivers follow a rigorous cleaning protocol, especially on high-touch surfaces, to keep home environments safe. By using appropriate cleaning agents, we help reduce the risk of cross-contamination and protect clients from common infections.

Symptom monitoring and reporting

Our caregivers are trained to monitor clients for any symptoms of illness, ensuring that potential health concerns are identified early. This proactive approach allows for timely intervention and reduces the chance of infections spreading.

Older man sitting on a couch with a mug, smiling at a standing man, who is wearing an ID badge and holding a cushion. - Home Instead

Health screening and vaccinations: To further protect our clients, we encourage and support our caregivers to stay up-to-date with seasonal vaccinations and health screenings. We also offer guidance to clients and families on preventive health measures, particularly during flu season.

Tips for families to support infection prevention

Families can play a vital role in infection prevention too. Here are some simple steps you can take:

  • Encourage regular handwashing: Hand hygiene is the simplest and most effective way to prevent infections.
  • Stay informed on vaccinations: Consult with healthcare providers to stay updated on recommended vaccines.
  • Monitor health changes: Keep an eye on any sudden changes in health, particularly symptoms like fever, cough, or fatigue, which could indicate an infection.

Our commitment to safety

This International Infection Prevention Week, we want to remind families and clients that we are dedicated to providing a safe and comfortable environment. By staying vigilant and following best practices in infection control, we’re able to support our clients in living healthy, fulfilling lives.

If you or a loved one needs reliable in-home care, reach out to us today to learn more about our infection prevention protocols and how we can help maintain a safe and supportive home environment.

We've helped thousands of families to stay safe, comfortable and happy at home. Whatever situation you're facing, or whatever the question is, Home Instead is here to help.

Are you in need of a little guidance right away?

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