RN Infection Preventionist

RN Infection PreventionistInfection Preventionist develops and maintains written policies and procedures for Onvida Health related to infection prevention that comply with regulatory agencies, evidence and best practices, for both the inpatient and outpatient settings. Performs infection prevention surveillance activities at YRMC and assists the healthcare team regarding proper care of infected patients including isolation procedures and works closely with Employee Health regarding programs for influenza vaccination and tuberculosis screening. The Infection Preventionist provides information, education and recommendations to reduce and stop the spread of infection in patients, clients, visitors, healthcare workers, and in the community and reviews current standards and literature are understood and practiced reducing costs at no increased risk to patients and clients.Responsibilities include developing and maintaining written standards, policies and procedures related to infection prevention encompassing all entities of Onvida Health; ensuring policies are consistent with regulatory agencies, including OSHA & CDC guidelines and standards and CMS/DNV standards; ensuring policies are updated as stipulated by the Infection Prevention Committee. Encourages and assists in the development and delivery of educational programs for medical, nursing, allied health, administrative departments and the community in infection prevention; ensures programs are consistent with current practice, CMS standards, AOA standards and OSHA regulations; maintains oversight for programs related to Blood Borne Pathogens, Respiratory Protection, Tuberculosis; provides programs during employee orientation and annually for all staff, including volunteers; exhibits basic competencies in teaching utilizing adult learning principles.Performs infection prevention surveillance and investigation activities for all patients; performs routine surveillance according to schedule approved by Infection Prevention committee or rearranges to meet organizational priorities; conducts investigations of suspected problem areas in a timely manner; keeps infection prevention data bases current; follows up on positive cultures and communicable diseases for all patients and staff, as needed; collaborates with Employee Health when investigating and/or following up on any staff illnesses, communicable diseases, work related injuries (see Employee Health Policy regarding the management of such employees). Assists in the development, training and implementation of organizational responses related to pandemic planning and preparedness, bioterrorism and surge capacity planning. Acts as hospital liaison, collaborating with other health care professionals regarding infection prevention works in conjunction with all services with primary areas being Employee Health Department and Laboratory Services; provides and receives information for State and county health departments; participates in local infection prevention control organization, APIC Grand Canyon Chapter; reviews current infection prevention literature from all sources including CDC, health department to the internet; consults with a variety of persons including physicians, staff, patients and community; makes recommendations to reduce costs at no increased risk to patients and clients; performs year-round syndromic surveillance for West Nile Virus and Influenza-like-illnesses, becomes part of CDC data base. Actively participates in assigned committees; co-chairs Infection Prevention Committee; attends assigned committees or plan for coverage. Coordinates the planning, development, and implementation of the short- and long-term goals and objectives for the infection prevention program; collaborates on a regular basis with the medical director of the infection prevention program; annually evaluates and updates the infection prevention program based on organizational needs and goals, and as stipulated by the Infection Prevention Committee and its Chairperson. Serves as a clinical resource to data abstractors. Other duties as assigned.Credentials: Essential: REGISTERED NURSE (RN) Education: Essential: BACHELOR'S DEGREE Minimum Requirements: Bachelor's Nursing Degree Three (3) or more years related experience Current State AZ or compact RN license BLS (AHA)Join us at Yuma Regional Medical Center dba Onvida Health A career at Onvida Health is more than just a job. It's a place to have a long and rewarding career, making a difference in the lives of those in our shared community. When you join our team, you become an integral part of a thriving community committed to improving the health and well-being of everyone in southwestern Arizona. At Onvida Health, we believe in progress with purpose. Our commitment to innovation is matched by our dedication to kindness and integrity. We take our values seriously because we know they lead to better outcomes for our patients and a better experience for all of us. We're looking for people who approach each day with a sense of possibility, a drive to make things better, and a commitment to kindness. If that sounds like you, you're our kind of people. If you're looking for a career where innovation meets compassion, where you can grow and contribute to building a healthier tomorrow, Onvida Health is the place for you. Life in Yuma, Arizona Yuma, recognized by Guinness World Records as the Sunniest City on Earth, offers more than just sunshine. It's a place where the great outdoors meets a welcoming, tight-knit community. Hike scenic trails, explore the Colorado River, or immerse yourself in local cultural festivals – all while embracing the beauty of this desert oasis. With easy access to larger cities and popular destinations, Yuma makes it easy to balance a fulfilling career with time for personal adventures and relaxation.