Pathogen Patrol – November 2024

This hit home for me during a project in a remote Indigenous community. We were working on incorporating culturally significant elements into the design, like traditional seal skin furniture and communal spaces for storytelling and drumming. These weren’t just aesthetic choices—they were essential to the community’s identity and well-being. But as beautiful as these elements were, they came with real infection control challenges. 

The Balancing Act: Cultural Elements and Safety 
I remember sitting down with an elder who shared the importance of maintaining their traditional practices within the facility. He spoke about how gathering spaces, where elders could share stories and teach younger generations, were as vital as the care beds themselves. It was a reminder that healthcare isn’t just about the physical body—it’s about the spirit, too. 

But then, I’d shift gears and talk to the infection control team. They’d raise concerns about how these same spaces could become high-risk zones during an outbreak. Communal spaces, shared seating, traditional materials—these could all harbor pathogens if not properly maintained. 

That’s where education became the bridge. By bringing everyone together—builders, healthcare staff, and community leaders—we could explore solutions that honored cultural practices while keeping residents safe. We ran training sessions on how to clean and maintain traditional materials without compromising their integrity. We rethought communal spaces with adaptable layouts that could easily transition during an outbreak. 

Real-Life Lessons in Risk and Resilience 
One moment that sticks with me was during a risk assessment for a seal skin bench. The bench had deep cultural significance, but it also raised questions about how to clean it effectively. Instead of dismissing it outright, we worked with the community to test cleaning methods and develop protocols that would keep it safe. 

Seeing the pride in the elders’ eyes when they saw the bench installed was a powerful reminder of why this work matters. It’s not just about infection control checklists—it’s about creating spaces that feel like home, even in the most clinical environments. 

Why Infection Control Education is Personal 
In my experience, the best outcomes come when everyone feels like they’re part of the solution. I’ve seen construction crews transform their approach after learning how their work directly impacts resident safety. I’ve watched healthcare staff gain confidence in handling outbreaks because they know their facility was designed with infection control in mind. 

And it’s not just about the big-picture stuff. It’s about the small wins, too. Like when a team realizes that switching to a non-porous material for countertops makes cleaning easier and faster. Or when someone remembers to seal off a construction zone properly, preventing dust from spreading into patient areas. These are the moments when education turns into action, and action turns into safer spaces. 

A Collaborative Approach 
One thing I’ve learned is that no single person or team has all the answers. It’s the collaboration—the sharing of knowledge and experiences—that leads to the best solutions. When everyone understands the why behind infection control measures, they’re more likely to embrace them. 

That’s why I always emphasize the importance of hands-on learning. Workshops, real-world scenarios, and open conversations are what make these lessons stick. It’s not just about ticking boxes; it’s about creating a culture of safety and respect. 

A Call to Action 
If there’s one takeaway from my journey, it’s this: Infection control isn’t a barrier—it’s a tool for preserving what matters most. Whether it’s protecting a community’s health or honoring their cultural traditions, education is the key to making it happen. 

To my clients and colleagues: let’s keep learning together. Let’s keep asking questions and finding solutions that respect both safety and heritage. Every project is an opportunity to build something that truly serves the people it’s meant for—body, mind, and spirit.