Regional Infection Preventionist

Infection Preventionist

The Infection Preventionist (IP) is responsible for assisting with the development and implementation of system-wide infection control policies and procedures. Expectations of the Infection Preventionist encompass the following: identification and communication of infection control problems, assistance in resolution of problems, provision of staff development programs to increase compliance with established infection control practices, interpretation and implementation of The Joint Commission, OSHA, and state licensure requirements in regard to infection control.

Position Requirements:

A. Licensure/Certification/Registration Degree in health science, healthcare delivery, public health, laboratory science, nursing, or related field. Experience in Infection Prevention and Control. Completion of a recognized Association for Practitioner in Infection Control (APIC) basic infection control training program or equivalent is desired. Certification in Infection Control (CIC) is preferred. Computer skills, research and basic statistical skills is preferred.

B. Key Responsibilities: The IP is responsible for assisting with the implementation of St. Mary's Health Care System Infection Control Program and related Plans. This includes but is not limited to the following:

• Works with the Infection Prevention and Control Manager, co-chairs the Infection Control Committee to implement and maintain the Infection Control program and other related activities.
• Collaborates to align Infection Prevention and Control program goals with organizational goals
• Pursues opportunities to improve quality, efficiency, and effectiveness.
• Provides mentorship to IPs and colleagues and seeks mentorship from experienced Ips.
• Coordinates assessment of the hospital's compliance with the approved infection control measures.
• Assessing educational needs of staff related to infection control; developing programs to meet these needs, including those required by and/ or identified through performance improvement activities. Assists and conducts trainings for medical staff, hospital employees, and others.
• Coordinates and leads special projects related to the infection control program and needs of the organization
• Responsible for daily infection prevention and control surveillance activities

C. Knowledge: Requires general knowledge of current nursing practices and current working knowledge of regulations and requirements that relate to infection control (i.e., TJC, CDC, OSHA); must have a working knowledge of hospital and department policies and procedures.

D. Skills: Demonstrates effective leadership abilities according to the situation. Stimulates creativity and innovation in achievement of goals and objectives for effective infection control by sharing new concepts and ideas; commends staff for adhering to infection control guidelines. Must possess excellent organizational skills, oral and written communication abilities, interpersonal skills, and ability to conduct meetings and make presentations to groups and individuals. Is available for consultation. Demonstrates ability to handle sensitive matters and materials and maintain appropriate levels of confidentiality. Must have computer skills in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and email.

E. Experience: Must have 3-5 years in acute care hospital, recent experience in infection control responsibilities, and ability to conduct group/ individual training sessions or in-services to peers and lay groups. Experience in data collection and input desired.

F. Initiative and Judgment Required: Must exercise a high degree of initiative and judgment based on knowledge of infection control practices. Duties involve matters/ materials of a confidential nature.

G. Accuracy: Must be dependably accurate and extremely proficient in all areas of work, especially record keeping and analysis of data. Must be highly dependable in meeting deadlines.

H. Relationships: Must maintain a positive approach and attitude toward work, interfacing professionally and harmoniously with physicians, St. Mary's colleagues, and external agencies.

I. Worker Source: Acute care and general community hospitals, private or federal agencies of a related field, or internally.

Our Commitment

Rooted in our Mission and Core Values, we honor the dignity of every person and recognize the unique perspectives, experiences, and talents each colleague brings. By finding common ground and embracing our differences, we grow stronger together and deliver more compassionate, person-centered care. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local law.