The rationale for the new standard, is that preparedness of hospitals is highly variable, and there are no mandatory requirements for hospitals to implement training or competency assessment on special pathogens.”
The National Special Pathogen System( NSPS) took that framework and built out a more robust system, utilizing level language like we see in the burn unit system, the trauma system, the levels 1-4, with all healthcare facilities at level 4 and Regional Emerging Special Pathogen Treatment Centers( RESPTCs) at level 1.”
She pointed to the Joint Commission standard IC. 07.01.01: The hospital implements processes to support preparedness for high-consequence infectious diseases or special pathogens, which went into effect July 1, 2024. The rationale for the new standard, she explained, is that preparedness of hospitals is highly variable, and there are no mandatory requirements for hospitals to implement training or competency assessment on special pathogens. A standardized approach to preparedness for high-consequence infectious diseases and special pathogens, grounded in hierarchy of controls, will strengthen basic infection control protocols and processes for all infectious threats. The elements of performance are that the hospital develops and implements protocols for high-consequence infectious diseases or special pathogens, as well as develops and implements education and training and assesses competencies for the staff who will implement protocols for high-consequence infectious diseases or special pathogens.
Arguinchona acknowledged that she and Prather were interchanging the terms‘ special pathogen’ and‘ HCID,’ noting,“ That’ s because both are referenced that way in the Joint Commission standards as well.”
She pointed to the five elements of performance – Identify, Isolate, Inform, Infection Control Procedures, and Education and Training.
The first element of performance is Identify, wherein hospitals must have in place screening at points of entry( POE), including emergency departments and urgent care clinics, and screening protocols must include respiratory signs & symptoms, fever rash, and travel history.
The second element of performance is Isolate, which encompasses procedures for transmission-based precautions, PPE and don / doff techniques, as well as a safe space equipped to support the person under investigation of HCID.
The third element of performance is Inform, meaning having procedures for informing key hospital staff as well as having public health notification / processes.
The fourth element of performance is Infection Control Procedures, wherein exposure reduction is ensured for staff, patients, and visitors using hierarchy of controls. There must also be support-care staff for those in isolation, plus policies and procedures for waste management, cleaning / disinfecting care spaces, equipment and surfaces,
The fifth element of performance is Education and Training, meaning a hospital must develop and implement education and training as well as assess competencies for staff who will implement protocols for HCIDs.
Arguinchona acknowledged,“ I know everybody’ s like,‘ How do you maintain competency on the 200
Leverage my expertise to improve your IP & C outcomes
As a 35-year industry veteran, I provided oversight for instituting infection prevention and control programs to aide in the provision of a safe environment to protect patients, staff and visitors from acquiring an infection.
I can do the same for you!
Calabrese Consulting Services offers the following:
• Infection prevention program assessment
• Outbreak investigation assistance
• Environmental hygiene facility assessment
• Collaborate with medical device manufacturers
• High-level disinfection and sterilization
• Speaking services include national meetings, virtual speaking engagements, local chapter meetings and state conferences
• Operating room assessment( infection prevention and environmental hygiene
• Policy and procedure development, review, revision
• Professional writing
• Mock survey for infection prevention and control
• Mentoring / coaching of new infection preventionist And much more!
My mission is to assist my clients in assessing, evaluating, and implementing measures to reduce the risk of infection.
My vision is to have a safer world with fewer infections, outbreaks and loss of life.
Contact me today! carolacalabrese11 @ gmail. com www. infectionpreventionconsultant. com