Targeted Calls for Research: Improving infection prevention and control in residential aged care homes 2023

This TCR was identified through the Community research priorities portal and aims to stimulate research to better understand the factors that influence the successful implementation of infection prevention and control programs and leads (experts) in residential aged care homes.

The objectives of the TCR were to develop an evidence base that:

• Informs how existing IPC guidelines and better practice approaches from other healthcare settings can be adapted to suit the unique environment of Residential Aged Care Homes (RACHs).
  • Which Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) interventions have the greatest long-term effect on infection reduction and control in RACHs.
• Identifies the governance arrangements required to support IPC Leads implementing effective IPC programs that reduce the risk of infection. This may include consideration of:
  • the experience, education and training standards needed by an IPC Lead
  • methods to evaluate IPC Lead and IPC program performance (i.e. KPIs)
  • RACH workforce design, organisational governance and current RACH practice standards
  • methods to train and educate RACH staff, residents, and families on IPC measures.
• Examines the role of surveillance of infection and antimicrobial stewardship and mechanisms for implementation.

It is expected that the outcome of the TCR will inform evidence-based interventions for IPC programs that meet the varying needs of public and private RACHs across Australia. The outcomes of research will also inform what actions are required to successfully implement IPC programs. The adoption of a consistent approach across jurisdictions will improve the quality of care delivered to aged care residents by reducing the risk of infection and incidence of infectious disease.