How to produce a hospital disinfection policy

The steps required to produce and implement a hospital disinfection policy are discussed including: the formation of the team responsible for the policy; the investigation and compilation of current methods of decontamination; assessment of these methods and selection of the best options by reference to model disinfection policies; planning and producing the policy; choosing the best format; implementation of the policy and staff training; and auditing and updating the policy. Guidance is given on the selection of suitable procedures for decontamination of the environment, the skin and mucous membranes, and endoscopes and other items.