ASCs need comprehensive infection prevention plans to reduce the risk of viral transmission and continue elective procedures, according to an article on the Becker’s Hospital Review website.

Sylvia Garcia-Houchins, RN, director of infection control at The Joint Commission, recently offered insights into infection prevention best practices, including these four key tips.

1. Understand regulatory requirements. State and federal requirements differ. 

2. Adjust to the new normal. Run through new protocols with staff members.

3. Be a leader. ASC leadership needs to  enforce the process and requirements. 

4. Identify weaknesses. An infection response is only as strong as its weakest link. 

The Joint Commission suspended official survey and accreditation activity at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, but recently the organization says it’s tested a virtual process for life safety and environment of care surveys at two facilities in March, according to a Health Facilities Management article.

The Joint Commission said the pilot may mark a new direction for the organization as it continues to work to streamline its surveying process. 

Read the full Becker’s article.