Caring for residents means constantly looking for ways to improve infection prevention while keeping daily life comfortable and dignified. That’s why the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC) created their guide, “Implementing Enhanced Barrier Precautions in Long-Term Care”. It’s a practical resource designed to help communities like yours reduce infection risks without disrupting the care residents deserve. 

Enhanced barrier precautions strike a balance between standard precautions and contact precautions. They focus on using personal protective equipment (PPE) during high-contact activities—things like helping residents with mobility or dressing wounds. For residents colonized or infected with multi-drug-resistant organisms (MDROs), these precautions can make all the difference in preventing the spread of harmful pathogens. 

The guide doesn’t just stop at theory—it’s packed with tips for making these precautions work in real-life settings. For example, having PPE readily available at the point of care keeps workflows smooth and efficient. It also emphasizes the importance of educating staff, residents, and families about why these precautions matter. When everyone understands the “why,” it’s easier to build trust and cooperation. 

Training plays a huge role too. Teaching staff how to properly put on and take off PPE (and making it part of their routine) can feel like a small change, but it can have a big impact. Tools like the HealthCap Enhanced Barrier Precautions resource offer actionable steps for integrating these precautions effectively into your community’s daily practices. 

If you’re looking for ways to strengthen infection prevention while keeping residents at the center of everything you do, APIC’s guide to enhanced barrier precautions in long-term care is a great place to start. 

Stay well and stay informed!