Long-term care
People living in long-term care facilities for the elderly or disabled can be particularly sensitive to infections and are often prescribed antibiotics. Therefore, it is important that there are well-functioning infection prevention and hygiene routines at these facilities.
The Antibiotic Smart criteria for long-term care facilities build on and complement existing efforts. They intend to support continuous improvements in infection prevention and antibiotic stewardship. The criteria also aim to involve staff in interventions and support with concrete tools. Staff working in long-term care facilities have been involved in developing and testing the criteria. In total there are nine criteria divided into four categories.
Examples of criteria for long-term care:
Organisation & Collaboration
- The long-term care facility has appointed a representative to help implement and follow-up infection prevention routines.
Measurements
- The facility measures and documents healthcare-associated infections, risk factors and ongoing antibiotic treatments at least once every year.
Working methods
- The facility develops an action plan based on measurement results of the facility and takes steps to implement the plan.
Professional development
- The facility carries out annual training for all staff in basic hygiene routines and other infection prevention measures.