PHO defines IPAC as evidence-based practices and procedures that, when applied consistently in health care settings, can prevent or reduce the risk of transmission of microorganisms to health care providers, clients, patients, residents and visitors.

The CIC® examination is the standardized measure of the basic knowledge, skills and abilities expected of professionals working in the field of infection prevention and control. The CIC exam is offered by the Certification Board of Infection Control and Epidemiology, Inc (CBIC).

For more information about the CIC exam, including eligibility requirements, cost, etc. please refer to the CBIC website here.

Considerations include, but are not limited to: efficacy of the disinfectant, ease of use, compatibility with items and surfaces, safe for use, cost, and environmental impact.

Additional information can be found here (Page 28: 1.3.2.1 Choosing a Disinfectant).

Facilities should have a plan in place for estimating the number of days of supplies and for maintaining an adequate supply of PPE for client/resident care for both usual care requirements and outbreak scenarios, with connections to suppliers for PPE needs.

Additionally, facilities may use the Regional COVID-19 Portal PPE Order Forms.

From PHO’s FAQ: “A risk assessment must be done before each interaction with patient/resident/client or the environment in order to determine which personal protective equipment (PPE) is required to prevent transmission during the interaction. PPE should be donned (put on) just prior to the interaction typically just outside the patient room and the PPE should be doffed (removed) and disposed of in the appropriate receptacle following the interaction. Ideally, PPE should be removed immediately at the exit of the patient/resident/client space. However if there is a lack of space (e.g., less than 2 metre distance from the client/patient/resident), staff may remove gown and gloves within the room at the exit and then exit the room and remove facial protection which includes mask/respirator and eye protection just outside the room. Some considerations regarding the donning and doffing area would be a) alcohol based hand rub is easily accessible b) appropriate receptacles i.e., garbage for disposable PPE, bin for linen if cloth gowns are used and c) waste receptacles are not adjacent to clean supplies to avoid contamination.”

Grey Bruce Public Health IPAC does not offer N95 fit testing services. We cannot endorse specific organizations, but Ontario Health West HMMS Portal provides a non-exhaustive list of fit testing organizations.

MCCSS organizations can connect with their local IPAC Champion for additional information on fit testing.

Any questions related to outbreak management should be directed to the Grey Bruce Health Unit’s Infectious Diseases team member responsible for your zone.

If you have a question specifically related to Infection Prevention and Control, please connect with the IPAC Hub for assistance.

IPAC Function in IPAC Hub:

• Services provided directly to congregate settings

• A variety of services are provided

• Services provided are required for congregate catchment areas based on acuity of needs identified

IPAC Function in Public Health:

• Outbreak response and IPAC inspections/audits

• Auditing a service or practice in response to a complaint or suspected IPAC lapse

• Enforcement

Long-Term Care Home

Retirement Home

Assisted Living Settings

Supportive Housing

Shelters

Adult Developmental/Intervenor Services and Congregate Residential Programs

Violence Against Women Shelters/Residential Programs

Anti-Human Trafficking Residential Programs

Children's Residences

Youth Justice Facilities and Open and Secure Custody Settings

Indigenous Healing and Wellness Strategy Residential Programs

Please refer to the Long-Term Care Home / Retirement Homes Resources section of the Ontario Ministry of Health and Ministry of Long-Term Care webpage.