Monday Pānui 21 October 2024

In today’s Pānui	AI Webinar 30 October 2024 National Cervical Screening Programme Information Update Infection Prevention and Control
AI Webinar 30 October 2024	The AI in Primary Care Working Group are holding their first webinar in a three-part series on Enhancing AI Literacy and Practical Tips for Primary Care Integration on 30 October 12.00pm - 1.00pm. Click on the above link for more information and to register for this highly informative webinar.
National Cervical Screening Programme Information Update	The National Cervical Screening Programme has undertaken a review of the Clinical Practice Guidelines for Cervical Screening.  A Clinical Practice Guidelines review group was established and participated in two workshops to review and develop the revised guidelines. A number of recommendations for changes have been made by the guidelines group. Te Whatu Ora are seeking feedback on the draft guidelines and recommendations via this online form by Friday 25 October. To access the draft guidelines, please email hpvscreen@tewhatuora.govt.nz.
Infection Prevention and Control   (Reprinted from the Friday Facts 18 October 2024	Infection Prevention and Control Checklist for 2024Message from Auckland PHO's IPC Champion, Aaron Piano:As we approach the end of the year, I wanted to remind everyone to complete the annual Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) Checklist. This is particularly important in light of the rising cases of Pertussis (whooping cough) in our community. Given the highly contagious nature of this illness, ensuring your IPC measures are up to date is critical in preventing further spread and safeguarding both your staff and patients. In addition to the checklist, please take the opportunity to review your current IPC Policy to ensure it reflects best practices and the latest health guidelines. An updated and well-communicated IPC policy is essential in maintaining a safe environment, especially as we face increasing community outbreaks.Both checklist and policy template can be found in the attachment section further below. Please prioritise the following areas as part of the checklist review: IPC Training: If your team requires additional training or updates on IPC practices, I have a list of available training sessions. Feel free to contact me for more information. Hand Hygiene: Proper handwashing remains one of the most effective ways to prevent the transmission of infections. Ensure that your team is following best practices, and take advantage of available resources, such as posters and handwashing guides, which I can provide if needed. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Make sure that you have adequate PPE supplies, including gloves, gowns, and face shields. It’s crucial that your team knows where PPE is located and how to use it appropriately. Mask Usage: With respiratory illnesses on the rise, ensure that masks are readily available for staff and patients alike. Please review your policies on mask use and ensure compliance to protect your team and the public. Attachments:Infection Prevention and Control ChecklistInfection Prevention Control Policy Template If you require any assistance with completing the checklist or reviewing your IPC policy, please do not hesitate to reach out. Once completed, kindly send the checklist back to aaron@aucklandpho.co.nz

Barbara Stevens | Tumu Whakarae/CEO