After scoring the IPC risk assessment, what is the first action to take?

Selecting the option to identify high-scoring items for infection prevention and control (IPC) program prioritization is the correct action to take following a risk assessment. This step is essential because it allows for a clear focus on the areas that pose the highest risk and requires immediate attention. The identification of these high-scoring items helps in directing resources and efforts where they are most needed, ensuring that the IPC program is both effective and efficient.

This prioritization is crucial because it informs subsequent actions that will impact overall patient safety and health outcomes. By understanding which risk factors are most significant, the IPC team can develop targeted strategies to mitigate those risks, enhancing the effectiveness of their infection control measures.

In contrast, immediate staff training may be beneficial, but it is more effective when informed by specific risk areas. Similarly, implementing new cleaning procedures, while important for infection control, should be tailored based on the findings of the assessment. Conducting a resident survey could provide additional insights, but it would not be the immediate next step to address identified risks from the assessment. Thus, focusing first on the high-scoring items sets a solid foundation for all subsequent actions.