Archive International Infection Prevention Week 2026
CareChoice is marking International Infection Prevention Week 2026, from 19–25 October. This week highlights the importance of keeping patients, residents and colleagues safe. It also reminds us that everyone has a role in preventing infection.
To mark the week, we spoke with Ciara Kelly, Assistant Director of Nursing (ADON) Practice Development at CareChoice Parnell Road. Ciara shared her views on staff training, teamwork and safe care.
Protecting Patients Through Everyday Care
At CareChoice Parnell Road, many patients have complex healthcare needs. As a result, some face a higher risk of infection.
Good infection prevention practices help reduce this risk. They can also prevent avoidable hospital stays and improve patient safety. Above all, they help our teams provide safe, high-quality care.
“For me, infection prevention is about protecting the people entrusted to our care.”
Ciara Kelly | ADON Practice Development
Education, Teamwork and Best Practice
In her role, Ciara works closely with the IPC Committee, IPC Link Nurses and wider team. Together, they support staff through training, audits and regular reviews.
Training covers hand hygiene, respiratory infections, outbreak planning and the correct use of protective equipment (PPE).
In particular, Ciara highlights the importance of good hand hygiene. It is one of the simplest ways to help prevent infection. Therefore, regular training and practical sessions help staff maintain safe standards every day.
Infection Prevention Is Everyone’s Responsibility
Everyone has a part to play in preventing infection. For example, good hand hygiene, clean spaces and early action can help keep people safe.
At Parnell Road, staff also work together to prepare for seasonal infections and outbreaks. In addition, regular training helps teams respond to new risks while providing safe, personal care.
As Ciara reminds us:
“Every interaction is an opportunity to keep someone safe, and by working together we can continue to provide the highest standard of care for our patients.”
Ciara Kelly | ADON Practice Development
This International Infection Prevention Week, we thank Ciara and all our CareChoice colleagues. Their hard work, teamwork and daily care help keep patients and residents safe.