ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the key issues of infection prevention and control in the out-of-hospital setting at a time when there has been a significant shift in its status, but the principles can be applied to any practitioner working in this environment, including doctors, nurses, physiotherapists, health visitors, occupational therapists, social workers and healthcare support workers. Healthy skin is an effective barrier to microorganisms, and so breaks in the skin should be covered to minimise the risk of pathogenic organisms entering the body via this route. The cleanliness of premises and vehicles is an important component of the provision of clean, safe care, and the National Health Service Constitution clearly states that services will be provided in a clean and safe environment fit for purpose based on national best practice. The World Health Organization describes the five moments of hand hygiene and the National Patient Safety Agency has provided a number of resources focusing on non-ward-based care.
