Rule 82-3-1-.16. Infection Control and Prevention

Rule 82-3-1-.16. Infection Control and Prevention

The CSU and any associated CSC and/or Temp Obs functions shall develop and implement policies and procedures for infection control and prevention that include the following:

1. 1. Standard precautions are defined and the use of personal protective equipment when handling blood, body substances, excretions and secretions are outlined;
2. 2. Proper hand washing techniques are outlined;
3. 3. Proper disposal of biohazards, such as potentially infected waste and spills- management, needles, lancets, scissors, tweezers and other sharp instruments is described;
4. 3. Prevention and treatment of needle stick/sharp injuries are outlined;
5. 4. The management of common illnesses such as, but not limited to Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA), colds and influenza, gastrointestinal viruses, pediculosis and tinea pedis, etc. is described;
6. 6. Specific procedures to manage infectious diseases including but not limited to tuberculosis, hepatitis B, Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) or other infectious diseases are described;
7. 7. Handling and maintenance of individual care equipment is described;
8. 8. The infection control risk assessment and plan is reviewed annually for effectiveness and revision, if necessary;

9. 9. The CSU and any associated CSC and/or Temp Obs shall have written hygienic practices and procedures regarding the management of linens and minimizing healthcare-associated infections, including collection, sorting, transport, washing and storage of soiled linens. The practices shall be based upon a cited expert source (such as the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) and updated annually to ensure the procedures reflect evolving standard practice. At a minimum, the facility shall:

   1. a. Have immediately available a quantity of clean bed linens and towels, etc., essential for the proper care of individuals at all times; and
   2. b. Have collection, sorting, and cleaning procedures which are designed to prevent contamination of the environment, individuals served, and personnel.
10. 10. In relation to individuals who are carriers of an infectious illness, the transfer and the release of confidential information to select unit medical and nursing staff on a need to know basis is addressed; and
11. 11. Hand washing facilities provided in both the kitchen and the bathroom areas shall include hot and cold running water, soap dispensers, disposable towels and/or hand blowers.

Authority: O.C.G.A. Sec. 37-1-29.

History. Original Rule entitled "Infection Control and Prevention" adopted. F. Jun. 30, 2011; eff. July 20, 2011.

Amended: F. Mar. 9, 2015; eff. Mar. 29, 2015.