Preparing for the Next Pandemic: An After-Action Review of Infection Prevention and Control Audit Strategies Within Airport and Hotel Quarantine Program

Abstract

Background: Effective infection prevention and control (IPAC) practices within the New South Wales (NSW) Airport Operations and Hotel Quarantine Program (Quarantine Program) were required to mitigate the risk of COVID-19 being transmitted to staff, other guests, contractors, and the community.

Method: The Quarantine Program relied on complex logistical arrangements and an end-to-end process that included all steps from the time travelers boarded the returning flight until completion of the quarantine period. This required compliance with relevant IPAC standards historically reserved for health care and the implementation of a quality assurance audit framework.

Results: The Clinical Excellence Commission (CEC) as the NSW Health Pillar for quality and safety and the lead in IPAC provided training and resources coupled with an IPAC quality audit framework after program commencement.

Conclusion: This approach ensured a clear governance structure and a regular review process to minimize risk and support continuous improvement within the program.