ICT functions as team
Health Boards should ensure that any Infection Control Team functions as a team, with clear lines of communication and regular meetings.
- The Scottish Government's response highlighted the role of the national HAI Taskforce in coordinating actions across NHS Scotland, working with local IPC teams. The HAI Standards require each NHS board to have a functioning Infection Control Team with clear lines of communication and regular meetings.
- The HCAI Strategy 2023-2025 reinforces the requirement for effective IPC team working at national and board levels (Scottish HCAI Strategy 2023-2025 (https://www.gov.scot/publications/scottish-healthcare-associated-infection-hcai-strategy-2023-2025/)).
How was this evidence gathered?
Response
Accepted
Response
AcceptedSection 2.1 of the Scottish Government's response highlights the role of the national HAI Taskforce, which coordinates, implements, and monitors actions across NHS Scotland to reduce HAIs, working with local teams and existing structures. The Taskforce has been restructured to provide efficient, effective, and targeted leadership and expert advice. Additionally, the HAI compendium provides NHS Scotland staff with an overview of all up-to-date national policy, guidance, and supporting materials on HAI, which would include best practices for team functioning and communication.
Published Evidence
Published assessments of progress from inspectorates, select committees, official progress reports, and other sources. Source type badge indicates whether each assessment is independent or government self-reported.
HIS IPC Standards (2022) Standard 1 (Leadership and Governance) addresses requirements for IPC teams to function effectively with clear communication lines and regular meetings. Infection Prevention Workforce Strategic Plan 2022-2024 addresses team structures.
View detailed findings
National standards provide framework for effective ICT functioning. Board-level compliance monitored through HIS inspections.