Forum: trauma and infection: considerations for patient and health care professional

Infection Control policies/procedures are written to reduce the risk for patient and HCW infection. But, if the policy or procedure is not practical, feasible or up-to-date, compliance will be low and risk may increase. Risk assessment within the community and evaluation of exposures to create changes using new technologies will help to protect the HCW. The ED should develop an open working relationship with the ICP and participate through active membership on the infection control committee. The ICP should spend time in the ED observing or, better yet, by spending some time walking in their shoes. Working together, sharing data on risk and exposures, compliance with PPE recommendations, and cleaning routines are ways to bring about a more risk-free environment for both patient and care provider.