INFECTION PREVENTION & CONTROL PROTOCOL Understanding transmission and principles of infection control The transmission of COVID-19 is thought to occur mainly through respiratory droplets generated by coughing and sneezing, and through contact with contaminated surfaces. The predominant modes of transmission are assumed to be droplet and contact. In view of this, I have listed below suitable steps to be taken by myself and clients in order that us both as safe as possible with the likelihood of infection being kept to a minimum risk.
Clients will be screened over the telephone before their appointment. We will discuss; medical, social and psychological history, specific risks for Covid-19 will be discussed. Clients will also be given the opportunity to ask questions or air concerns. Clients who have been asked to shield or a deemed as 'high-risk' may be refused an appointment.
HIGH RISK FACTORS
1. Medical conditions include:
System diseases such as cardiac disease, respiratory disease, liver disease or kidney disease
Diabetes
Immunodeficiency
Currently being treated for cancer
Obesity
2. Other high factors include:
Age 65 or over
Any patient that has been advised to shield at home
Any seasonal allergies which cause spontaneous coughing or sneezing
3. Recent symptoms: If you have recently experienced any of the following please speak to your GP prior to attending to determine if you require a COVID test
Fever
Persistent cough
4. Additionally any symptoms that are not ‘normal’ such as (but not limited to):
Fatigue
Body aches
Headache
Sore throat
Loss of smell or taste
Nausea
Please consider Social factors prior to attending your appointment:
Living with vulnerable family members (elderly or shielding).
Recent contact (within 14 days) with someone diagnosed with Covid-19.
Current employment and social distancing measures at work.
Living with family who continue to work without adequate social distancing.
Uses public transport to work.
International travel
Ensure that non-essential clutter, decoration, magazines or brochures are removed from the studio
Any soft furnishings are removed
Decommission door knockers or buzzers and substitute with call or text message system for entry
Signage or screens/cordons may be installed where necessary to support you
Client ‘journey’ to appointment
ACTION TAKEN BY ME TO KEEP CLIENTS SAFE AND REASSURED
I will identify and address any specific concerns a client might have. If a client seems especially anxious, I will avoid persuading them to continue with their consultation, but rather reassure them they can defer treatment until they feel safer
All common areas and the studio will be cleaned daily. All hard surfaces, including door handles, light switches etc. will be wiped using household bleach diluted as per brand instructions, or detergents which confirm they are effective against Covid-19. Once wiped with detergent, surfaces should be left for 10-15 minutes, 70% alcohol wipes, sprays or gels are known to be effective and therefore may be used. Anything used or touched during the consultations will be wiped with a detergent effective against covid-19 with suitable substance, prior and following appointment, and during if required
Access to a toilet will be offered. Disposable tissues will be provided, along with hand sanitiser
The quality of ventilation will be risk assessed daily and measures put in place to minimise risk: Studio ventilation will take place prior to consultations, during consultations (if possible) and following consultations
I will ensure I wear clean clothes for all consultations and keep my hair clean and tidy
I will wear an apron, mask, visor (covering my mouth and nose) and disposable gloves at all times. Mask and visor will be cleaned and washed after each consultation. It will not be touched during the consultation
I will wash and sanitise my hands prior and during consultations (when deemed necessary)
I will avoid touching my eyes and face during consultation, please could I ask clients to do the same
All equipment will be kept clean and sanitised in preparation for consultations and when necessary repeat sanitising will take place during the consultations. All equipment will be sanitised/cleaned following consultations
Refreshments will not be supplied due to increased risk of contamination
Provide clients with a clean gown to be worn during consultations
Adapt the delivery and design of consultations to minimise risk to clients
Encourage a 'zero contact policy' where possible
CLIENT RESPONSIBILITY
On arrival clients should not knock the door; I will look out for clients and greet them. They will be taken directly to my studio
Clients must wear clean clothes and have clean hair on day
Clients will be invited to wash their hands on arrival and apply hand sanitiser
Sanitiser will be offered on departure
Clients must sign the visitors form on arrival, and personal information provided will be stored safely and securely.
Clients may bring their own drinks
Clients with seasonal allergies who are prone to sneezing or coughing should take antihistamines and if symptoms are not managed, wear masks which may limit the consultation processes. Clients should discuss this with me prior to attending
If using the toilet, clients must discard of tissues immediately after use in the bin provided. The toilet will be cleaned thoroughly prior to their arrival and again upon their departure
All payments should be made directly into my back account or via PayPal. No cash taken at any point
Clients must check their phones on the morning of their consultation in case of any important changes or updates
Clients must arrive for appointment on time – not early or late. Clients to arrive wearing a facial covering
Client must avoid bringing unnecessary personal belongings.
Please also attend appointments unaccompanied, if possible. Clients should call me to discuss if they wish for someone to attend with them. Additional attendees will only be permitted if deemed absolutely necessary
**Please remember to pay for your consultation in advice by PayPal or BACS as cash will not be accepted**