What Should Your Infection Prevention Policy & Procedures Manual Include?

An essential part of running a compliant dental practice in Australia or New Zealand is having a well-developed Infection Prevention Policy & Procedures Manual. This document forms the backbone of your infection control protocols and is a key requirement under compliance guidelines from regulatory bodies including the Dental Board of Australia, the Dental Council of New Zealand, the Australian Dental Association (ADA), and the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC).

But what exactly needs to be included in this manual? Many practices find themselves overwhelmed by the complexity of the guidelines and the level of detail required. To help simplify the process, here is an overview of the essential components your manual should contain.

The Purpose of Your Infection Prevention Manual

This manual is not just paperwork. It is a living document designed to guide your team through every aspect of infection prevention and control in your daily operations. It should serve as a comprehensive reference point, a training tool, and a compliance safeguard. Importantly, it must reflect the most current regulations and best practices.

Key Components to Include

Your Infection Prevention Policy & Procedures Manual should outline everything from the basics of hand hygiene, both routine and surgical, to the correct use of personal protective equipment and the proper setup of treatment areas between patients. Environmental cleaning protocols, including clearly defined zones requiring barrier protection, must be specified to prevent cross-contamination.

The manual should describe how to manage exposure incidents like sharps injuries and how to handle and dispose of sharps and waste safely. Detailed guidance on processing reusable instruments, covering cleaning, packaging, sterilisation, disinfection, and storage, is essential, as is the safe handling of radiographs to avoid contamination.

To ensure ongoing safety, the manual must also include information on quality control procedures, such as how to maintain and monitor equipment, staff immunisation requirements, and the appropriate use of single-use items. Documenting information during patient care in a way that avoids contamination, managing infection control when using digital equipment, maintaining dental waterlines, and managing latex allergies in both patients and staff are also crucial topics.

An Incident Register should be maintained to document any accidents or exposure events, with clearly defined responsibilities for infection control activities known to all team members.

More Than Just a Manual: Implementation is Key

Having a comprehensive manual is only part of the compliance equation. To truly meet compliance standards, the manual must be actively used and not just filed away. It should be regularly reviewed and updated, especially when new guidelines are issued by regulatory bodies. Every staff member should sign a Staff Register to confirm they have read, understood, and agreed to follow the policies and procedures.

Infection prevention policies should be part of the daily rhythm of the practice, supported by consistent training and open discussions that keep the importance of these protocols front of mind.

Need Support?

If you are unsure where to start or need help updating your existing manual, the Prime Practice Compliance Team is here to help. We offer a complimentary 15-minute consultation to help you assess your current compliance position, with no obligation.

For those looking for a ready-made solution, you can also order our comprehensive Policy & Procedures Manual tailored to the latest guidelines.

Taking infection prevention seriously protects your patients, your team, and your business. Stay compliant, stay confident.

Want to learn more or book your consultation? Get in touch with Prime Practice today.