As part of the IMAGINE Project’s ongoing commitment to combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and enhance infection control practices in nursing homes, two key intervention workshops will be held in Slovenia. Scheduled for November 6 and 7, these sessions will bring together healthcare professionals from various nursing facilities across the country.
Workshop objectives and scope
The intervention workshops aim to equip healthcare professionals with essential skills to improve infection prevention and control (IPC) practices, with a focus on managing common infections, such as urinary tract infections (UTIs). These structured, interactive sessions will allow participants to reflect on their current practices and explore effective strategies for advancing infection management and antibiotic stewardship.
Key workshop activities will include:
– Audit analysis: Participants will review findings from prior audits conducted as part of the IMAGINE Project, assessing current infection control practices and trends in antibiotic prescribing to identify specific areas for improvement.
– Goal setting: Using audit data, expert recommendations, and the latest European AMR guidelines, attendees will establish clear objectives to improve IPC protocols and optimize antibiotic use within their facilities.
– Expert-led training Healthcare professionals will engage in training on best practices for diagnosing and managing UTIs, as well as techniques for effective infection prevention.
– Educational resources: Participants will receive educational materials on IPC and antibiotic stewardship to share with colleagues and residents’ families, helping to foster a broader understanding of infection prevention within the nursing home community.
The APO method: an effective approach
The IMAGINE Project employs the Audit Project Odense (APO) method, a structured approach that enables nursing homes to systematically assess and improve their practices. This method includes an initial three-month audit phase, during which healthcare professionals actively monitor and document data on UTIs and IPC measures in their facilities. This comprehensive, data-driven evaluation supports the targeted interventions that follow.
Why nursing homes play a crucial role in fighting AMR
Nursing homes house some of the most vulnerable members of society, who are at increased risk of infections. Improper antibiotic use in these settings can contribute to AMR, posing serious health risks. Through IPC and AMS workshops, the IMAGINE Project aims to instill lasting improvements in infection management, benefiting both residents and the broader healthcare system.
Following the workshops in Slovenia, the IMAGINE Project will continue its interventions in other European countries, including Slovakia and Denmark.