RN - Infection Control

Infection PreventionistThe Infection Preventionist (IP) is responsible for the surveillance, analysis, interpretation, and reporting of healthcare-associated infections (HAI). This role includes monitoring reportable conditions, educating employees about infection prevention, and developing policies and procedures to ensure rigorous infection prevention and control standards that align with Joint Commission, Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), Centers for Medicare/Medicaid Services (CMS), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Federal Drug Administration (FDA), and other nationally recognized agencies. Timely reporting of infection prevention and control measures and outcomes based on CMS requirements is also a critical aspect of this position.Key ResponsibilitiesInfection Prevention and Control Program: Support the development, implementation, maintenance, and updating of the Infection Prevention and Control Plan and Program in alignment with IPC regulatory agencies and best practices.Data/Reporting: Collect, trend, prepare, and maintain all infection control data and statistical reports, providing appropriate reports as needed to the National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) and other regulatory agencies.Education/Training: Serve as an expert in Infection Prevention and Control, facilitating education and training for all staff, patients, families, and communities. Conduct new and annual employee IPC orientation and training sessions.Leadership and Teamwork: Act as a role model and liaison for Infection Prevention and Control initiatives, maintaining positive working relationships with all stakeholders to foster effective teamwork. Co-chair the IPC committee and participate in other teams as needed. Travel may be required to various locations for assessments, education, and training.QualificationsBachelor's degree in a healthcare-related field (Nursing, Public Health, Epidemiology, Microbiology, or similar) is required.Master's degree in a healthcare-related field (MPH, MSN) is preferred.Certification in Infection Control (CIC) is required.Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality (CPHQ) is preferred.Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification is required.A minimum of 3 years of experience in acute care/infection control, data collection, performance improvement, or risk management is required.Experience with basic statistics and epidemiological principles is necessary.Experience in Long-Term Care IPC is a plus.Flu vaccine is required.Essential SkillsStrong analytical and data interpretation skills.Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.Ability to conduct research and implement evidence-based practices effectively.Demonstrated leadership and teamwork capabilities.