Reply To: Infection Alert System in RACFs

Hi Catherine,

I can only speak from working in previous organisations.

We had an alert system that came up when first opening the residents electronic file, was quite bold and needed to be closed to move on. All required alerts presented like this – falls risk, cytotoxic treatment etc.

Note: Electronic alerts were only put into place for MRO infections, and these remained whether the infection was active or colonized- i.e. they were never closed off. For active MRO infections, management and precautions were addressed in the infection report. If colonised, then a risk assessment was in place to identify future potential risk of active infection with this MRO, directions as to what to watch, as well as immediate management and precaution measures to implement should active infection present.

Once an electronic infection (of any kind) report had been established, alerts were set within the system for RN follow up – this included infection management, signs and symptoms and antimicrobial review – usually 24hr.

In regard to all other infections, alerts were made through clinical hand overs – both verbal and written for clinical staff. A daily infection alert form was provided to kitchen, laundry, maintenance, cleaning, admin, allied health etc. These forms were provided to teams in the facility morning huddle where there was representation from all areas – form was usually collaborated by the clinical lead or IPC lead or RN in charge. This system was consistent and well known through outbreaks.

Re: The IPC Lead the scope of their role was facility determined – but the expectation of infection management and resident cases oversight, was certainly there.

Hope that is a little helpful

Kind regards Carrie
ACIPC
ACIPC IPC Consultant
Hobart