ISSUE: Consistent adherence to infection control principles is the means by which healthcare workers can protect themselves and their patients. One tool to assess infection control practice in clinical areas is the infection control audit, however, many institutions do not approach this in a systematic fashion.

PROJECT: Key features of the infection control audit were identified by the infection control team and developed into a standardized format for review of clinical areas. Reviews of the physical layout, protocols and policies, knowledge of basic infection control principles, and workplace practices are the key elements in the audit. The final report has the same structure as the review process, and findings are summarized as a list of recommendations supported by references and guidelines. A checklist of responsibilities and action dates are appended, and a meeting with the clinical area's multidisciplinary team is arranged to discuss the findings and recommendations.

RESULTS: A total of 17 audits involving 1525 employees have been completed over the last 13 years. Four hundred and one staff members have completed questionnaires that assess their understanding of standard precautions. A total of 238 recommendations have been made, and 95% of these have been implemented. The majority of recommendations address separation of clean and dirty supplies, hand hygiene compliance, signage, correct use of barriers, and environmental cleaning.

LESSONS LEARNED: The infection control audit can be a daunting task. A standardized approach provides a template for an impartial, organized, structured, and thorough review. It also allows benchmarking of practices across the institution and provides an opportunity to simultaneously review safety in the workplace and identify and remedy deficiencies. Uniformity of approach has been effective in promoting and improving standards of infection control in our institution.