WASH PRESS: WASH solutions and PCI measures for the preparation and response of health facilities in cases of health emergencies and disasters (English version) - 2023

This course is an adaptation of the homonymous course taught by the Pan American Health Organization. It has been decided to restructure the original course to convert it into a self-study course.

This structure is developed through 9 modules that propose updated technical solutions adapted to the context of water, sanitation, hygiene, waste management, environmental cleaning and Infection Prevention and Control measures (IPC). 

Course Objective 
The general objective of this course is that, after completing the course, the participant will be able to use informed decision-making (before, during and after a health emergency and disaster) that guarantees the implementation of solutions in water, sanitation and hygiene, as well as Infection Prevention and Control measures, based on WASH knowledge and skills, complying with the established indicators and minimum standards. 

Learning objectives

• Understand the WASH PRESS basic components.
• Implement the relevant strategies in terms of hygiene, water, sanitation, waste management and environmental cleaning.
• Identify the main elements for Infection Prevencion and Control.
• Learn the characteristics of WASH and IPC management services.
• Outline informed decision-making as a solution in emergencies and disaster situations.

Duration 
The course is open and available on the Virtual Campus for Public Health (CVSP). Because it is a self-study course, participants can regulate their times and moments of dedication.
 
Target Audiences 
The target audience of this course are: health professionals who work in WASH, these can be personnel from the Ministry of Health, PAHO personnel, those responsible for the planning and execution of WASH and IPC measures, or health personnel from health facilities such as sanitary engineers, members of IPC committees or supply managers for water, sanitation, hygiene, waste management and environmental cleaning services.

They are expected to have basic computer skills, as well as the ability to discriminate, analyze, and synthesize.

Estructure

• Module 1: Introduction to WASH PRESS
• Module 2: Hygiene
• Module 3: Water
• Module 4: Sanitation
• Module 5: Waste management
• Module 6: Environmental cleaning
• Module 7: Infection Prevention and Control
• Module 8: WASH and IPC management
• Module 9: Implementation Plan