Getting the basics of infection prevention and control right

Making sure we all get the basics right when it comes to infection control sounds easy – but we know it can be hard to do consistently.

Busy wards, staffing issues, operational pressures, changing guidance… all of these can compete with our focus on getting it right, every time.

REFRESH aims to keep those key infection control messages front and centre in all our minds, with a simple set of reminders that we can all use, every day.

REFRESH includes everything from ensuring good ventilation and keeping areas clutter-free, to taking breaks safely and having the confidence to question when something doesn't look right.

By working together, and following the guidance, we can all make a difference in protecting ourselves, our patients and our colleagues.

You'll see lots more about REFRESH around our hospitals and in our regular communications in the coming weeks.

Click here to download the REFRESH poster which spells out the campaign.

REFRESH film

If you haven't done so already, please take a few minutes to watch a new short film in which staff recount their experiences of caring during Covid-19.

From becoming ill themselves, to seeing colleagues become unwell and how outbreaks can spread, the film gives an honest account of the pandemic and its effect on our staff, patients, wards and hospitals.

It's part of a new infection prevention and control campaign aimed at reinvigorating our approach. From providing good ventilation and the importance of regular cleaning, to clearing out clutter and adhering to social distancing, REFRESH aims to provide staff with handy reminders about the simple things we can all do, regardless of our role.

"Making sure we all get the basics right when it comes to infection control sounds easy – but we know it can be hard to do consistently," said Paul Bolton, head of infection prevention and control.

"The film is an important way we can hear honest accounts of some of the difficulties we face providing care during the pandemic, but also what we can all do to support each other and our patients.

"By working together, and following the guidance, we can all make a difference."