Principles of Infection Control

Introduction

This award has been developed collaboratively between the University of Gloucestershire and the Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. It is a practice focused programme designed to improve standards of infection prevention and control at clinical level for all healthcare professionals.

Aims of the programme

The aims of the programme are to enable the health professional to:

enhance practice in infection control through evidence-based and reflective approaches
develop a clear rational for clinical care
be critically aware when decision making, using the risk assessment process on issues of infection control within their clinical area
explore their own practice in relation to infection control and to have a positive influence on the practice of colleagues within their clinical area
appreciate infection control strategies employed outside their area of expertise and across the wider health economy
encourage sharing infection prevention and control practices with partnership organisations
influence and change practice in relation to infection control

Content

One module at level 5 (AHS205) or one module at level 6 (AHS309).

Both modules are designed to enhance the student’s clinical skills in relation to infection control and thus improve patient care. They will focus on the application of clinical practice underpinned by relevant theory and research findings. You will be introduced to the principles of infection control, prevention and management within the context of healthcare associated infection.

Department of Health guidelines and the developing evidence base can support good practice and contribute to overall clinical governance. You will gain knowledge and understanding of how surveillance and audit are applicable to staff in primary care and acute trust settings.

Progression

Students who successfully complete the Certificate in Principles of Infection Control will be able to transfer 20 CATS points into the BSc Applied Health Studies Degree programme. Your tutor will advise you on AP(E)L procedures.

Structure and timing

This is a part-time programme run over half an academic year. Taught sessions are mainly held at the Oxstalls Campus with some visits to clinical settings. The course includes attendance at University for whole study days with the students also completing additional self-directed study, which includes reading and assignment preparation. Application of course content to clinical practice will vary according to the individual student’s profession.
Learning Resource facilities are available at both the University, and within local health care Trusts.

Teaching and assessment

Specialist clinical staff deliver the majority of the programme, so that teaching is linked to practice. University staff support the development of study skills.

Mechanisms of assessment are linked to applying the theoretical aspects of the Principles of Infection Control to clinical settings and students will be required to demonstrate their ability to apply these to their practice.

Entry requirements

The student may enter at the academic level 5 or 6 appropriate to their prior learning which is agreed following application. To be considered for entry you will be asked to provide evidence of:

minimum one year experience of working in heath and/or social care
prior learning, at appropriate level
access to an appropriate practice environment.

Applications

To gain further information and an application form please contact:

The Course Administrator
Principles of Infection Control
University of Gloucestershire
Faculty of Sport, Heath & Social Care
Oxstalls Campus
Oxstalls Lane
Gloucester
Gloucestershire
GL2 9HW

Tel: 01242 715132
Fax: 01242 715222
Email: shsc@glos.ac.uk