Infection prevention and control: Guideline for speech pathologists, Version 1,2020.

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5.6 Aseptic Technique Aseptic technique is used to prevent the introduction of infectious agents to susceptible sites via hands, surfaces or equipment by minimising contamination during procedures. The five essential principles of aseptic technique are listed in Table 6. Speech pathologists may conduct tasks that require an aseptic technique however it is not a common consideration for the profession. For example, in an acute hospital setting, an aseptic technique would be used for endotracheal suctioning in tracheostomy management. Conduct a risk assessment to determine the level of aseptic practice needed and consult local guidelines and policies, in addition to the

NHMRC Guidelines (Section 3.1.6), 9 for further information. Table 6: Five Essential Principles of Aseptic Technique

Performing a risk assessment Pre-procedure preparation Performing the procedure

• • • •

Sequencing

Post-procedure practices, handover and documentation • Prior to aseptic procedures, ensure there are no avoidable nearby environmental risk factors, e.g., floor cleaning • Perform hand hygiene before a procedure and after a procedure or body fluid exposure • Cleaning and/or disinfection of equipment and client prior to the procedure(s) • Establishing an aseptic field • Use of sterile instruments and/or equipment • Maintenance of the aseptic field, including protecting the key sites and key parts • Use of a non-touch technique • Correct selection and use of sterile and non- sterile PPE

Environmental Control

Hand Hygiene

Maintenance of Aseptic Fields

PPE

Adapted from NHMRC Guidelines 9

Checklist I: Aseptic technique

Yes No N/A Action Required/ Evidence

Have you identified procedures in your practice which require aseptic technique? Do your policies, procedures or guidelines document aseptic technique? Have you conducted a risk assessment to determine the level of aseptic practice required throughout your practice? Do staff understand the difference between a key part (part of the instrument that must remain sterile) and a key site (area on the client)

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Infection Prevention and Control - Guideline for Speech Pathologists | Version 1, 2020