12VAC5-391-270: Infection control

A. The hospice program shall implement a program to reduce the risk of infection.

B. Infection control activities shall include, but are not limited to:

1. Staff, patient, patient family or caregiver education regarding infection risk-reduction behaviors;

2. Use of universal precautions;

3. Handling, storing, processing and transporting of regulated medical waste according to applicable procedures;

4. Handling, storing, processing and transporting supplies and equipment in a manner that prevents the spread of infection; and

5. Monitoring of staff performance of infection control practices.

C. Accumulated waste, including all contaminated sharps, dressings, or similar infectious waste, shall be disposed of in a manner compliant with the OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens standard (29 CFR 1910.1030).

D. Dedicated hospice facilities shall have provisions for isolating patients with infectious diseases.