Resources for keeping uptodate

Policy and guidance evolves and changes as research provides more evidence base for safe care and infection prevention. It is difficult for healthcare staff to keep up-to-date with this constant flow of information and the Internet has often provided information overload, which often ‘swamps’ staff and makes it difficult for them to find the time to review every piece of new research. Don’t forget that NRIC provides infection prevention & control evidence in a single portal for ease of access when searching for that elusive piece of project information, when you need to explain infection prevention and control to patients and relatives or just to check that your practice is correct. Below are some other ways to help you keep knowledge and practice up-to-date.

• Many of your local Infection Control Teams will run study days on an annual basis and these will be reasonable priced or even free so make the most of this opportunity and ask around to find out dates and venues
• Nationally the IPS hold an annual conference and further information can be accessed from their website
• NRIC has a link to national and international study days and conferences. Here is a list of conferences that may be of interest to you.
• Finally your professional organisation hold conferences regularly and the Events Team will be happy to provide information

The online advice service provides RCN members with comprehensive information and advice on a whole range of issues, including legal, employment relations and nursing practice. It is also a portal to the guidance on careers and welfare and specialist best practice advice. RCN Direct online advice allows you to access practical advice and guidance, which will support you at work. You can access advice on a whole range of employment, legal and professional issues. RCN Direct online advice also has a range of self-help fact sheets including statement writing techniques and tips for coping with stress.

Improving patient care by providing nurses and health care assistants with easy-to-access learning materials available at any time. Here you will find continuous professional development learning opportunities at your fingertips, designed with your busy lifestyle in mind. Explore the learning opportunities in the sections and visit often, as new learning is added regularly.

The Nursing & Midwifery Council exists to safeguard the health and wellbeing of the public. They register all nurses and midwives and ensure that they are properly qualified and competent to work in the UK. Set the standards of education, training and conduct that nurses and midwives need to deliver high quality healthcare consistently throughout their careers. Ensure that nurses and midwives keep their skills and knowledge up to date and uphold the standards of their professional code. Ensure that midwives are safe to practise by setting rules for their practice and supervision Have fair processes to investigate allegations made against nurses and midwives who may not have followed the code For more information go to the website.

• Department of Health
• National Resource for Infection Control (NRIC)
• Infection prevention Society (IPS)
• International Scientific Forum for Home Hygiene (IFH)
• Health Protection Agency (HPA)
• Hospital Infection Society (HIS)
• National Patient Safety Agency (NPSA)
• Knowledge and Information portal
• eBug
• Department of Health Social Services and public safety
• National Public health Service for Wales
• Healthcare A2Z
• World Health Organisation (WHO)
• European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC)