Module 1 – Foundations of Infection Prevention and One Health

This module introduces the scientific foundations of infection prevention and control. Students examine microorganisms, infectious diseases, disease transmission, zoonoses and the One Health framework to develop an understanding of how infections emerge, spread and can be prevented. These scientific principles provide the foundation for evidence-based occupational therapy practice across healthcare, community and assistance animal settings.

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this module, students will be able to:

1. Explain the characteristics of microorganisms and infectious diseases relevant to occupational therapy practice.
2. Analyse the mechanisms of disease transmission and the factors influencing infection risk across healthcare and community environments.
3. Differentiate between zoonotic and other infectious disease pathways using a One Health perspective.
4. Apply scientific principles of infection prevention to occupational therapy practice involving clients, assistance animals and diverse environments.
5. Integrate One Health concepts into clinical reasoning and infection prevention decision-makin