IPC policy review
Health Boards should ensure that infection prevention and control policies are reviewed promptly in response to any new policies or guidance issued by or on behalf of the Scottish Government.
How was this assessed?
Response
Accepted
Response
AcceptedSection 2.1 and 3.2 of the Scottish Government's response indicate that NHS boards are required to adhere to revised Healthcare Associated Infection (HAI) Standards and the National Infection Prevention and Control Manual, with performance against these forming part of HEI inspections. Section 3.2 further states that NHS boards must have infection-control committee structures in place to support communication and policy implementation. The infection control manager, an integral member of clinical governance committees, is responsible for assessing the impact of new policies and making recommendations for change.
Published Evidence
Published assessments of implementation progress from inspectorates, select committees, official progress reports, and other sources. Check the source type badge to see whether each assessment is independent or government self-reported.
National Infection Prevention and Control Manual (NIPCM) relaunched by Chief Nursing Officer on 11 July 2022. Continuously updated evidence-based guidance for all NHS Scotland. Audit tools available. Updated in 2023 to reflect post-COVID transition.
View detailed findings
NIPCM is the authoritative evidence-based guidance document for IPC across NHS Scotland. Health Boards are required to update local policies promptly in line with NIPCM changes. A separate Care Home IPC Manual was also developed.