Rationale:
Infection prevention and control (IPC) nurses play a critical role in improving patient safety, yet many programmes remain reactive, driven by immediate risks, audits, and compliance requirements. There is an opportunity to strengthen IPC impact by applying practical business strategy principles to better prioritise efforts, use resources effectively, and deliver sustainable improvements in care.

Methodology:
This presentation translates core business strategy concepts into the IPC setting. It outlines what strategy is in practical terms—defining clear goals, understanding the current environment, and choosing where to focus effort for maximum impact. Key components include assessing local risks and data, engaging stakeholders, setting priorities, and developing actionable plans. Simple, adaptable tools are introduced to support structured thinking and decision-making in busy clinical environments.

Significant Results:
Applying a strategic approach enables IPC nurses to shift from task-focused activities to outcome-driven practice. Examples demonstrate how clearer prioritisation can reduce low-value activities, improve compliance with key practices such as hand hygiene, and better align IPC initiatives with organisational goals. This approach also supports stronger engagement with frontline staff by linking IPC activities to meaningful outcomes.

Conclusions:
Strategy in IPC is not about complex documents but about making clear, informed choices and following through. When IPC nurses are supported to think and act strategically, programmes become more focused, effective, and sustainable.

Recommendations:
IPC teams should adopt simple strategy frameworks, focus on high-impact priorities, and ensure plans are translated into daily practice through clear communication, accountability, and ongoing evaluation. Small, consistent changes can drive significant improvements in both patient outcomes and programme effectiveness.