A GROUP of Grant High School students has been given an insight into frontline infection controls at Mount Gambier Hospital, which prevent the spread of influenza, super bugs and other contagious infections.
Members of a Year 8 class – who are researching infectious disease control – toured the hospital facilities, including its two negative pressure rooms.
Students were also given the opportunity to learn how to put on a protective gown and mask, which are important measures to prevent the spread of infection within the regional hospital.
Infection prevention and control nurse consultant Nicole Vause led the tour and gave insight into the detailed procedures and regulations surrounding infection control within the health facility.
Explaining the hospital was a busy facility, she said infection control was front and centre of the hospital’s procedures and practices.
“The students appear to really have enjoyed the visit – they were engaged and asked lots of questions,” Ms Vause said.
She said among the highlights was a visit to the hospital’s two negative pressure rooms, which was a unique opportunity.
Students learnt about the correct process of entering and using the room, which most students would normally never get to see.
The young learners were also given a detailed summary of the hospital’s protective equipment with students gaining an insight into wearing gowns and other protective gear.
“The students experienced how it felt to put a mask over their face,” Ms Vause explained.
The interactive experience highlighted the focus on infection control.
From influenza, whooping cough, measles and super bugs to tuberculosis, the hospital is always on high alert for such diseases and infections given some people enter the hospital after spending time overseas.
