Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) Specialist Career Framework
Topic
Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) Specialist Career Framework
Alignment with the NMAHP Development Framework
Some alignment
Purpose of the framework
The IPC Specialist Career Framework is a multi-professional framework which aims to provide a structured approach to outlining the knowledge, skills and behaviours required for specialist IPC professionals based on their role and level of expertise.
The framework can also be used to:
- Support managers/leaders in ensuring that their team has adequate provision of IPC knowledge, skills and behaviours using a structure approach.
- Support educators in the creation of appropriate resources and pathways which will provide the appropriate specialist IPC knowledge and skills for learners.
Audience
The framework is intended for staff working - or preparing to work - in specialist IPC roles across Scotland, including:
- IPC Practitioners
- IPC Managers and IPC Clinical Leads
- IPC Associate Practitioners
- IPC Doctors/clinical scientists
- Health Protection Nurses
- Healthcare Scientists involved in IPC, surveillance or epidemiology
It can also be used by:
- Educators designing or delivering IPC learning
- managers and organisations responsible for IPC workforce development and planning
Published by
Public Services Delivery Scotland
Date of publication
August 2026
Components (e.g. pillars/SCQF levels/roles)
Level of practice:
- Level 1 - Skilled. Staff for whom IPC practice forms the core and substantive part of their role
- Level 2 - Enhanced. Experienced and knowledgeable staff who practice IPC at an enhanced level.
- Level 3 - Advanced. Staff with a high degree of knowledge and experience in the field of IPC.
Pillars of Practice
- Clinical Practice
- Quality Improvement and Research
- Leadership
- Education and Training
Career Framework Levels
Levels 6-8
User recommendations
Where can I find it?
The Framework is available on Turas Learn