Infection Prevention & Control
Infection prevention and control (IPC) is a critical aspect of care home practice. Care home residents are often more vulnerable to infections due to age, underlying health conditions, and close living arrangements. Effective IPC protects residents, staff, and visitors.
About Infection Control in Care Homes
The Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) Regulations 2014 require registered providers to assess the risk of, and prevent, detect, and control the spread of infections (Regulation 12). CQC inspectors specifically assess infection control as part of the “Safe” key question.
The Care Handbook provides guidance aligned with the Department of Health & Social Care's “Health and Social Care Act 2008: Code of Practice on the prevention and control of infections” (the IPC Code of Practice), World Health Organization guidelines, and Health Protection Agency best practice.
Key standard: CQC Regulation 12 (Safe Care and Treatment) requires providers to do all that is reasonably practicable to mitigate risks to health and safety, including the risk of infection. The IPC Code of Practice sets out the 10 criteria that registered providers must meet.
In This Section
Hand Hygiene
The WHO 5 Moments of Hand Hygiene, handwashing technique, and when to use alcohol hand rub — the single most effective way to prevent the spread of infection.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Correct donning and doffing sequence for PPE in care homes — aprons, gloves, masks, and eye protection. When to use each type and how to dispose of it safely.
Outbreak Management
How to recognise, manage, and report outbreaks in care homes — including norovirus, influenza, COVID-19, and scabies. Notification requirements and isolation procedures.
IPC Audit Tool
Interactive infection prevention and control audit checklist — assess your home's compliance across hand hygiene, PPE, environment, waste management, and outbreak preparedness.
Why Infection Control Matters
3,000–4,000
Outbreaks reported in UK care homes each year (norovirus, flu, COVID-19, scabies)
1 in 5
Care home residents experience a healthcare-associated infection at any given time
#1
Hand hygiene is the single most effective measure to prevent the spread of infections (WHO)
Authoritative Resources
Important Notice
Care Handbook is a guidance resource only. It does not replace your organisation's policies, formal training, or current CQC standards. Always follow your employer's specific procedures and consult your line manager or the relevant professional body if you are unsure. Infection control guidance evolves rapidly — always verify with gov.uk and cqc.org.uk for the most current guidance.