Why Infection Control is Crucial in Veterinary Clinics

When we visit a hospital or doctor's office, we like to think that the facilities are clean and germ-free. Well, it's just as important for our pets, too. After all, a veterinarian's office is just like any other medical setting, where care and attention is required to maintain a safe, hygienic, and sterile environment. 

It is shocking to learn that every year there are approximately 90,000 deaths that occur due to infections contracted in medical facilities, including veterinary clinics. In order to reduce the risk of infection, all veterinary offices should take every preventative measure they can to reduce or eliminate hazards associated with contamination. 

Implementing an Effective Infection Control Program

Every veterinary clinic should have a formal infection control program that they follow. This should include a written infection control manual and some form of surveillance with regards to daily practices, risks, and how these risks are addressed. 

Your vet's office should be following routine practices that are critical to infectious  disease control and prevention. Simple procedures such as hand washing, cleaning and disinfection, laundry, waste management, and disease susceptibility need to be included in a good infection control program. Furthermore, all equipment used should be sterile or subject to sterilization prior to each use. 

Veterinary clinics also perform surgical procedures and administer wound care to their patients. Animals from shelters and other facilities such as puppy mills, require special treatment and could be considered at high-risk for infectious diseases. Education of personnel and clients is crucial to good veterinary care. 

Special Considerations for Veterinary Clinics

Because animals have the tendency to bite or scratch, precautions are different from a hospital or urgent care center. Infection prevention needs to be at its highest. 

Veterinary clinics can benefit from infection consultants in Canada. These experts will take care of all of your clinical needs, with certified equipment technicians to help you with every job, no matter how big or small to guarantee a safe environment.