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Introduction of clinical technique enhances patient safety

Friday, 16 February 2018

A new approach to infection prevention across health and social care services aims to raise standards of patient safety.

The Aseptic Non Touch Technique (ANTT) is a standardised procedure designed to minimise the risk of infection during clinical procedures in a range of healthcare and home settings.

Aseptic means free from contamination caused by harmful bacteria, viruses or microorganisms, and in recent decades, health staff have been taught different approaches to aseptic practice. 

ANTT will ensure a standard regime is followed by all healthcare professionals, whether carrying out hospital procedures or dressing a wound at a patient’s home. Evidence confirms this approach significantly reduces the risk of infection among patients.

The practice was launched at the Department of Health and Social Care’s annual Infection Prevention and Control Conference, where delegates were addressed by an ANTT specialist.

The technique will be introduced across the Department in three phases, starting with Noble’s and Ramsey Cottage Hospitals, and some areas of community health care.

In time, all those responsible for ensuring safe clinical procedures will be educated and assessed in the ANTT approach. Dedicated ANTT champions will lead the roll-out of the programme in each area.

Linda Radcliffe Chief Nurse said:

‘I am delighted to sponsor the Department’s Aseptic Non Touch Technique approach. Once fully implemented, it will mean that every patient who has an invasive procedure regardless of where they are seen and by whom, will receive the same standardised care.’

Margaret Knight, Lead Nurse for Infection Prevention and Control said:

‘ANTT is a safe, modern, evidence-based technique. Standardisation in this area has been proven to reduce mortality and morbidity related to healthcare associated infections (HCAIs).

She added:

‘The principles of ANTT can be applied to any aseptic procedure, from the operating theatre to the community.'

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