Pharmacy Infection Control: Environmental and Workplace Policy

Abstract

Objectives: In this study, we aimed to illustrate pharmacy infection control environmental and workplace policy as a new initiative in Saudi Arabia. Methods: This is a narrative review. It relates to pharmacy infection Prevention and control. The following databases were searched for literature review-medline, PubMed, and Google Scholar. Topics were explored in line with the objectives of the study. The period of the search was from 1960 to October 2021. The search language was English. The literature search included narrative review, systemic review, meta-analysis, and related guidelines. The search also included policies related to hospitals as well as community pharmacy services. A research team was formed. It included clinical pharmacists, expert pharmacists, and infection control specialists. The policy was drafted by the some authors. The other pharmacists were vested with the responsibility of reviewing the draft. The infection control specialist reviewed issues related to the field of its specialty. The review highlighted pharmacy environmental Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) and workplace policies and procedures. Results: The environmental and workplace policies of pharmacy infection control consisted of various items. For example, policies regarding the handling of carpet and furniture, clothes, water and solutions, air handling systems, sinks and toilet, and the kitchen. In addition to the maintenance of sterile and nonsterile compounding areas, the point of dispensing at ambulatory care services, drug distribution at inpatient pharmacy, and the types of disinfectants to be used, including their indications and safety. Conclusion: Environmental and workplace policies and procedures are new initiatives for Pharmacy Infection Prevention and Control (PIPC) in Saudi Arabia. Such initiatives would keep the preparation of medication and dispensing area clean and sterile by preventing the growth of any bacteria or any other microorganisms. The quality of safe drug dispensing and patient safety are being ensured too. Therefore, environmental and workplace policies are highly recommended for implementation in Saudi Arabia.