As in the practice, when conducting a domiciliary visit infection control measures are particularly important. However, there can be particular difficulties (e.g. the need to transport instruments both before and after treatment, suitability of hand hygiene facilities).
Transport all equipment, instruments and PPE securely to and from the practice in a manner that avoids contamination or damage.
Ensure hand hygiene products are available for use during the visit. Hand hygiene products (wash or rub) should meet the obligatory and additional BS EN standards.
- Hand rub can be alcohol-based or non-alcohol based if the product meets the required BS EN standards. These standards are listed in the NIPCM Hand Hygiene Literature Review [1].
- If products do not meet the required standards, then you must complete a risk assessment to ensure safe systems of work are adopted or use a product that does meet the required standards.
If possible, use single use items that can be deposited in the appropriate waste containers on site and securely transported back to the practice for disposal.
If reusable instruments have been used or unwrapped during the visit, transport them back to the practice for decontamination in a designated secure container marked ‘Used medical equipment’.