Preparation strategies must be in place before an outbreak occurs to ensure a quick and timely response to contain and reduce transmission.

Preparation strategies help guide employees to the immediate responses required in an outbreak and take some of the stress out of a stressful situation. 

Outbreak Management Plan

Ensure the plan is reviewed, tested, and adjusted at least every three months

All employees need to be made aware of the plan and how to access it

Ensure there is a surge workforce management plan, this includes finding employees through recruitment agencies and the organisation

Equipment

Do a stocktake of personal protective equipment (PPE), hand wash, alcohol-based hand rub/sanitiser, cleaning solutions, testing equipment, specimen collection equipment, etc., and order more items if required

Check that current stock is available and in date

Ensure signage is available and current for all infections

Delivery of Care

Plan how residents may need to be reorganised in different outbreak scenarios, considering the layout of the  facility and the implications for employees and equipment 

Identify adjustment of care delivery in an outbreak

Plan the support services needed or changes to services in an outbreak  

Ensure visitors and employees are screened for infections and records kept

Communication and Education

Ensure communications systems are updated regarding who needs to be notified in an outbreak and how often

Ensure all employees are educated regularly on infection prevention and control procedures

Engage with and educate employees, residents, and families, so they understand what will happen in an outbreak and what they need to do

Encourage employees, residents, and families to stay up-to-date and comply with vaccinations

Check all national, state, and territory legislation policies relevant to each residential aged care facility.