Controlling and preventing the spread of infection has always been a goal in any healthcare setting. But in recent decades challenges presented by dangerous bloodborne pathogens like HIV and hepatitis B and C, and a rise in the number of multidrug-resistant organisms, has made reducing the number of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) more important than ever for healthcare professionals working in all healthcare settings.

This five-part series is designed to assist nurses and others working in long term care in preventing the spread of infections by providing important background information and practical strategies for keeping residents - and coworkers safe from infectious pathogens.

This program is updated to acknowledge that gowns and gloves should be worn by staff for all interactions that involve contact with the resident's bodily fluids, blood, secretions, or excretions, as well as contact with potentially contaminated areas in the environment. PPE should be donned before entry into the room and discarded before exit.

Precautions have been developed by OSHA and the CDC to help prevent and control the spread of infectious diseases. It is essential that all healthcare professionals working in long term care be aware of and abide by these precautions. This third course in the five part series on Infection Control in Long Term Care is designed to introduce and discuss these infection control policies.

After completing this course, the learner should be able to: