Level 3 Certificate: Infection Prevention & Control (IPC) Lead

Course Structure

Course Summary

•  Format: online, self-paced
•  Average completion time: 2 months
•  Number of Learning Units: 9
•  CPD Hours: 14
•  Guided Learning Hours: Average of 30 hours (depending on the learner’s speed)

Course Assessments

•  Unit Quiz: One multiple choice quiz per unit
•  Final Assessment: Includes a case scenario and a reflective question

Support 

•  Optional drop-in support session classes available.
•  One-to-one tutor support is easily accessible by email, telephone, or Zoom.

Modules/Units

Module 1: Developing the IPC Leadership Role

Unit 1: Leadership and Management in Dentistry

• Understand the role the IPC Lead has in the leadership and management of the dental practice
• Understand how to handle conflict relating to IPC in the dental practice

Unit 2: Introduction to CQC and Your Role as IPC Lead in Inspections

• Know the history of CQC regulation in dentistry
• Explain the Key Lines of Enquiry
• Understand the evidence CQC inspectors will be looking for during inspections
• Explain the role of the IPC Lead during an inspection
• Be confident in preparing for CQC inspection

Unit 3: Reflective Learning and Identifying Training Needs in Practice

• Be able to describe the importance of reflective learning
• Be able to explain the Gibbs Reflective Cycle
• Be able to demonstrate reflective practice and identify your own training needs
• Know how to identify the training needs of individuals and the team

Unit 4: Team Training Skills

• Understand different learning styles
• Identify potential barriers and understand methods for overcoming them
• Explain different methods for evaluating learners’ understanding of training sessions
• Be able to select appropriate evaluation methods

Module 2: IPC Lead  

Unit 1: Setting Up a Compliant CSU

• Understand the benefits of having a CSU in practice
• Explain the flow of instruments and the appropriate layout for a CSU as outlined by HTM0105
• Explain how you would select appropriate equipment for a CSU as outlined by HTM0105

Unit 2: Audits

• Know the CQC requirements for audits in the dental practice
• Explain the benefits of audits on managing the clinical environment
• Know the steps for planning an audit
• Be able to use the results of an audit to identify necessary improvements
• Understand how to use audits to ensure changes in behaviours/practices are maintained

Unit 3: Creating Action Plans and Implementing Them

• Be able to identify required improvements
• Be able to explain the difference between improvement and implementation
• Be able to create an action plan to help implement changes in practice
• Understand how to share an action plan with the dental team

Unit 4: RIDDOR and COSHH Requirements

• Be able to explain the RIDDOR and COSHH requirements of a dental practice
• Explain how the IPC Lead can work to ensure compliance with RIDDOR and COSHH
• Know how to carry out a Risk Assessment for COSHH

Unit 5: Management of Epidemics and Pandemics

• Know the difference between an epidemic and a pandemic
• Understand the importance of having contingency plans for business continuity in dentistry
• Know where to get relevant information and guidance during a state of emergency
• Understand what an SOP is and how to write one
• Understand the importance of keeping your SOP up to date during a pandemic/epidemic