Infection prevention and control

Infection prevention and control is the clinical application of microbiology in practice. The RCN considers this area to be key to quality, patient safety and governance systems and an integral element of reducing antimicrobial resistance (AMR).

Infection or disease may be caused by bacteria, fungi, viruses or prions and can result in a wide variety of infections, for example, urinary tract, wound, respiratory, blood, bone and skin infections.

Not all infections are transmissible but some, such as C. difficile, SARS-CoV-2, influenza and norovirus have the potential to spread from one patient to another, causing outbreaks of infection with serious implications for health care organisations, facilities or nursing homes. Understanding how infections occur and how different microorganisms act and spread is crucial to their prevention in all settings, not just health and social care.

The RCN is actively involved in infection prevention issues and practice to support improvements in nursing practice and patient outcomes across the UK. Activity takes place on a national, regional and local level, ranging from representation at national forums, meetings, stakeholder events and site visits to members' workplaces.

Our work in the field of AMR is diverse and compliments our IPC activity. By focusing specifically on the nursing role in preventing the development or spread of infection, and our commitment as part of the inter-professional contribution to antimicrobial stewardship, the RCN is a key leader and influencer nationally and internationally in this area.

Influenza is a viral infection that affects the lungs causing respiratory infections. Secondary infections can occur due to influenza resulting in pneumonia or sepsis. The severity of influenza infections can be reduced through vaccination 

RCN members should ensure they are vaccinated. Local infection prevention and control policies should be consulted for advice on the prevention of spread of flu. The RCN risk assessment toolkit will support members to select the use of respiratory personal protective equipment in different scenarios.

Useful resources:

• RCN position on vaccination
• UKHSA - Seasonal influenza: guidance, data and analysis
• Public Health Wales - Flu guidance
• HSC Public Health Northern Ireland - Seasonal influenza (flu) guidance
• Health protection Scotland - Influenza guidance