Point of Care Devices Toolkit

Point of Care Devices Toolkit

The resources in this toolkit may only be used for internal improvement and education efforts. They may not be used for commercial purposes.

Point of care testing occurs at or near the site of patient care and is accomplished through the use of transportable, portable, and handheld instruments. Point of care testing devices, including blood glucose meters and lancing devices, must be used as directed in order to minimize the risk of transmitting blood-borne pathogens, including hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV.

The ASC Quality Collaboration has assembled a variety of resources and information that may be used to supplement your current processes to improve infection prevention practices surrounding the use of point of care devices.

The BASIC Point of Care Devices Toolkit includes three essential resources:

The EXPANDED Point of Care Devices Toolkit contains both essential resources and a broader array of materials, including:

Comments and other feedback may be directed to Ann Shimek, Executive Director, ASC Quality Collaboration, ashimekco@gmail.com.

Assessment Tools

Implementation Aids

  • Leadership Letter Template
    This sample letter from clinical leaders in the ASC may be used to communicate plans for an awareness initiative regarding infection prevention in the use of point of care testing devices. The template should be adapted to fit the unique circumstances of each center.
  • Policy and Procedure Template: Infection Prevention for Point of Care Testing
    This sample infection prevention policy and procedure for point of care testing is based on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines and recommendations from the American Association of Diabetes Educators (AADE). It should be adapted as needed for use in each facility.
  • Summary of Glucometer Cleaning Guidelines (ASCP)
    Beginning on page 8, this 2010 document from the American Society of Consultant Pharmacists (ASCP) summarizes manufacturer cleaning guidelines for glucometers. Though prepared for the long term care environment, much of the information is applicable to the ASC setting.
  • Registered Antimicrobial Products Effective Against Human HIV-1 and Hepatitis B Virus (EPA)
    This 2018 document from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) lists products that are registered as effective against HIV and Hepatitis B viruses.

Training Materials

Monitoring Tools

Workplace Reminders

Guidelines from Leading Authorities