Standardizing Infection Prevention and Control Training in Jordan
Optimal infection prevention and control (IPC) practices are essential to support the provision of high-quality and safe health care services. Strengthening the capacities of IPC personnel is critical not only to protect patients but also to protect health care workers and decrease the spread of infections. In Jordan, the Advisory Committee for Infection Prevention and Control (ACIPC) requested support from USAID to standardize IPC training across different sectors.
The Heath Care-Certified IPC Training Program
MTaPS-sponsored certified IPC course for RMS IPC focal points—Opening Ceremony, September 15, 2022. Photo credit: MTaPS Jordan
The USAID MTaPS Program, in coordination with the Epidemics Administration and IPC Department (IPCD) at the Ministry of Health (MOH), collaborated with the Health Care Accreditation Council (HCAC) to develop a certified IPC course.
The course targeted IPC health care providers and managers from MOH hospitals and Health Affairs Directorates. The training was first launched for MOH participants, and due to its remarkable success, expanded to include Royal Medical Services (RMS) participants.
Results
MTaPs trained 35 (21 females and 14 males) and 28 (19 females and 9 males) IPC personnel from MOH and RMS health facilities, respectively. The course consisted of didactic training sessions followed by practical training sessions.
The 63 participants completed 650 training hours and passed all certification requirements, including an exam, qualifying them for certification.
Toward Sustainable IPC Programs
This training course will help to build, standardize, and sustain infection control programs at Jordanian health facilities. The certified participants are now responsible for training staff in their respective health facilities on IPC best practices, including surveillance of infection cases. Standardizing IPC interventions at the national level will promote the appropriate application of IPC measures to further reduce the spread of infections and the need for antimicrobial use.