IPC in Domiciliary Practice

Homes and care settings add variables and reduce environmental control. The same principles apply, but preparation and respectful negotiation are essential. Lone-worker safety runs alongside IPC.^[2][5]

Preparing for visits

Carry portable hand rub, gloves, wipes compatible with kit, and waste bags.^[1][2] Ask pre-visit questions about pets, smoking, space, ventilation, and recent illness.^[3] Choose equipment that cleans easily and survives travel.^[1][2]

On arrival and during care

Set up a clean zone for kit and a separate "used" area.^[2][1]

Perform hand hygiene before and after contact.^[1][2]

Avoid placing items on floors or soft furnishings where possible.^[3]

Cleaning before departure

Wipe touch points on devices with approved products and contact time.^[2] Bag used items separately and dispose of waste safely on return following local policy.^[4] Document any exposures or near misses promptly.^[2]

• Controls to protect staff and patients: clear escalation routes; check-in calls with timings; agreed "leave and return later" rules if environments are unsafe; and PPE for tasks likely to be messy.^[5][2]

Care-home interfaces

Respect local policies and coordinate with staff for residents who are infectious.^[6][3] Clarify vaccination and visitor rules in advance.^[6] Adapt appointment schedules to reduce congestion and wait times.^[6]

Communication and consent

Explain hygiene steps in plain words and seek consent for cleaning in personal spaces. Offer alternatives if a proposed measure feels intrusive. Maintain dignity while protecting safety.^[3]

Records and learning

Keep domiciliary logs with:

• Address
• Hazards encountered
• Actions taken
• Outcomes

Review themes monthly to refine kit, routes, and booking scripts. Share learning with schedulers so changes stick.^[2]

Returning to base

Clean transport containers, restock PPE and products, and note any equipment faults. Replace used spill kit components immediately. A short end-of-day checklist helps prevent gaps before the next round.^[1][2]

References (numbered in text) Why we include references

1. Infection control — College of Optometrists (The College of Optometrists). Find (opens in a new tab)
2. National infection prevention and control manual (NIPCM) for England — NHS England. Published: March 2025. Find (opens in a new tab)
3. Infection prevention and control: resource for adult social care — Department of Health and Social Care / GOV.UK. Find (opens in a new tab)
4. Health Technical Memorandum 07-01: Safe and sustainable management of healthcare waste — NHS England. Document first published: 20 March 2013; updated: 26 January 2024. Find (opens in a new tab)
5. Protecting lone workers: How to manage the risks of working alone — Health and Safety Executive (HSE). Find (opens in a new tab)
6. Supporting safer visiting in care homes during infectious illness outbreaks — UK Health Security Agency. Published 15 April 2024. Find (opens in a new tab)