Policy – Position Statement

Purpose 

Position statements are evidence-based statements on topics of interest, that will outline the evidence, and inform the community of ACIPCs position on key infection prevention issues and provide guidance to members for their professional practice.  

Scope 

The Practice Guidance Committee (PGC) will ensure position statements relating to infection prevention and control are relevant to practice, remain current and are aligned with the ACIPC strategic plan.  

Definitions 

ACIPC: Australasian College for Infection Prevention and Control. 

Policy statement 

Position statements will be developed by the PGC, who will collate and evaluate evidence-based resources and literature to provide recommendations.  

• Purpose – To inform ACIPC members and the community on the position of ACIPC on key infection prevention issues. 
• Aim – Position statements will follow a structured format and include an executive summary, background of the problem/issue, literature review, recommendations for practice, and references. 
• Duration – Position statements will be reviewed annually, or when research or evidence results in a change in practice, and will be endorsed by PGC and the ACIPC Board prior to publication.  

Topics of an ACIPC position statement 

The topic of a position statement will usually arise from a contemporary issue that has been identified as a concern to healthcare workers or the community. Topics may be identified from the Board, through members seeking further guidance or leadership on a topic of interest, or in conjunction with key stakeholders or other organisations where topics of interest impact their professional practice.  

Position statement topics will be considered if the topic is current and is supported by the evaluation of an adequate volume of available evidence. Prior to development the topic must be endorsed by the Board or PGC.