Applying AS/NZS 5369:2023 to practice in the primary care setting
| Thursday, August 27, 2026 |
| 9:45 AM - 10:05 AM |
| Tāwhirimātea 1 |
Overview
Ruth Barratt
Speaker
Dr Ruth Barratt
IPC Consultant
Vector Consulting
Applying AS/NZS 5369:2023 to practice in the primary care setting
Abstract
Infection prevention and control (IPC) is an essential component when providing patient care in all healthcare settings, including those services delivered in GP practices and medical centres. The RNZCGP recognises the importance of IPC for effective safety and quality of care and therefore, IPC is included in the required criteria to meet their Foundation Standard™.
Reprocessing of reusable surgical instruments using a small benchtop autoclave is common in GP practices. Facilities must comply with AS/NZS 5369:2023 Reprocessing of reusable medical devices and other devices in health and non-health related facilities – a comprehensive standard which can be difficult to interpret and apply to practice in a small setting.
This presentation will provide some clarity for GP practices to comply with AS/NZS 5369:2023 including using a risk assessment process and monitoring requirements for water and equipment. Tools and resources to assist compliance are also suggested.
Reprocessing of reusable surgical instruments using a small benchtop autoclave is common in GP practices. Facilities must comply with AS/NZS 5369:2023 Reprocessing of reusable medical devices and other devices in health and non-health related facilities – a comprehensive standard which can be difficult to interpret and apply to practice in a small setting.
This presentation will provide some clarity for GP practices to comply with AS/NZS 5369:2023 including using a risk assessment process and monitoring requirements for water and equipment. Tools and resources to assist compliance are also suggested.
Biography
Ruth is a registered nurse, credentialed at expert level in IPC through the Australasian College for Infection Control Professionals and holds a Master of Advanced Practice Infection Control and Prevention (Honours), Griffith University and a PhD through University of Sydney.
Ruth is passionate about all aspects of IPC and has more than 27 years’ experience in this field across the private and public sectors in New Zealand and Australia. Ruth is currently working as a private IPC consultant through Vector Consulting.
