Infection prevention in care homes and healthcare facilities: hygiene and protocols

Updated on 2026-07-06

How environmental hygiene helps prevent infections in care homes and healthcare facilities: high-level disinfection, high-touch surfaces, hand hygiene, PPE and staff training.

Why hygiene is prevention

In healthcare and care settings, residents and patients are more vulnerable: correct environmental hygiene is one of the fundamental measures to reduce the risk of healthcare-associated infections. Cleaning alone is not enough: a sanitisation and disinfection programme with defined protocols is needed.

High-level disinfection and critical areas

Higher-risk areas (patient rooms, restrooms, clinics, treatment rooms) require authorised professional disinfectants (biocides), with correct contact times and concentrations. It is essential to distinguish cleaning, sanitisation and disinfection and apply them according to protocol.

High-touch surfaces and environmental hygiene

Handles, bed rails, call buttons, switches and frequently touched surfaces must be sanitised several times a day. Clear organisation (colour-coded cloths, per-area procedures) prevents cross-contamination.

Hand hygiene and PPE

Hand hygiene for staff and visitors is the most effective measure: alcohol gel and soap dispensers are needed at strategic points. Personal protective equipment (gloves, masks) completes operator protection.

How Dipres supports healthcare and care homes

We supply professional disinfectants, protective devices and sanitisation systems, with the necessary technical and safety documentation, to support infection-control protocols in hospitals, clinics and care homes. We also support facilities with consultancy and training.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between sanitisation and disinfection in care homes?

Sanitisation reduces the microbial load to safe levels; disinfection eliminates pathogens with authorised products. In critical areas, disinfection is used according to protocol.

Do you also supply PPE for staff?

Yes: our products include disposables and personal protective equipment for healthcare and cleaning staff.