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

9.0 Conclusion

The Infection Prevention and Control Guideline for Speech Pathologists provides a foundation to assist speech pathologists in considering, planning and navigating the infection measures required to ensure a safe working environment and the provision of high-quality services across all types of infectious agents. The selected measures need to be responsive and appropriate to each context or given scenario . Additionally, speech pathologists can use this guideline to advocate for workplace policies and equipment. The current guideline provides an overview of infection prevention and control and includes profession-relevant information that addresses standard and transmission-based precautions, environmental cleaning and risk management. The information presented in this guideline represents basic expectations and current information. It is not exhaustive and clinical judgement supported by a risk assessment process is advised in this continually evolving area. As previously stated, infection prevention and control is central to healthcare provision. Each individual is responsible for minimising and eliminating risks to themselves, clients and others when undertaking tasks across all practice settings. Speech pathologists are strongly encouraged to consult the best available infection prevention information and make the required modifications for any existing recommendation updates. To inform ‘usual practice’ and during outbreaks, epidemics and pandemics, speech pathologists need to review and follow the procedures or directives from workplace organisations and services, governing and regulatory bodies and professional associations for both emerging and known infectious agents.

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