JOB SUMMARY

The Infection Preventionist is responsible for overseeing the infection control program. The Infection Preventionist systematically collects and assesses data in collaboration with the team to provide therapeutic, evidenced based care. The Infection Preventionist works collaboratively with the team to develop plans of care and documents progress toward achieving defined outcomes. This position requires the knowledge of epidemiology and application of public health practices in the facility, with the goal of implementing effective and efficient procedures and policies to combat disease transmission among residents and staff.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Must maintain current licensure in good standing with the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation as a Licensed Practical Nurse or Registered Nurse.
• Must have a minimum of one year clinical experience. Experience with Infection control, MDS and care plans is preferred.
• Must be proficient in PC skills including the Microsoft Word and Excel programs.
• Must have excellent organization skills.
• Must possess strong critical thinking skills.
• Must comply with accepted professional standards and practices.
• Must have satisfactory references from employers and/or professional peers.
• Must be self-directed with the ability to work with little supervision.
• Must be flexible and cooperative in fulfilling all obligations.
• Must have the ability to market and interact professionally with clients and the community.
• Must possess comprehensive knowledge of applicable State and Federal regulations.
• Must have excellent observation, verbal and written communication skills.
• Must demonstrate a commitment to quality nursing care.
• Infection Preventionist Certification is preferred.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Keeping Infection log current on residents with infections, updating weekly and as needed.
• Overseeing antibiotic stewardship program
• Ensuring Mcgreer’s criteria is followed.
• Consultant with infectious disease provider as needed
• Tracks and trends employee and resident related infections.
• Ensuring assessments are done per program requirements
• Auditing documenting on all infections.
• Audits infection control practices on the floor.
• Monitors immunization process throughout the year on all residents and employees.
• In servicing staff on infection control program.
• Entering, updating and reviewing all care plans relevant to infections and isolation.
• Evaluate all new admissions / readmissions within 24 hours of admission for any active infections or usage of antibiotics.
• Completes analysis of information collected regarding Infections and presents at QA Meeting
• Follow the current established standards of nursing practices and assist staff in implementation of practices.
• Maintain a professional, cooperative relationship among health care teams by communicating essential information, responding to requests in timely manner, building rapport and participating in team problem solving methods.
• Communication with the DON regularly.
• Participate in meetings staff meetings, department meetings, team meetings, briefings, in-services and other meetings as requested or as needed.
• Maintain regular attendance.
• Adhere to the Facility’s Code of Conduct.
• Consistently meet and exceed Facility customer service standards.
• Interact with all staff in a positive and motivational fashion supporting the Facility mission.
• Conduct all business activities in a professional and ethical manner.
• Create and maintain a professional atmosphere.
• Other duties as assigned.

WORKING CONDITIONS

An individual in this position will be required to maintain regular attendance in the facility and will be exposed to the general patient population, which may include exposure to various inside environmental conditions, infectious disease blood borne pathogens, physical hazards, chemical hazards and respiratory hazards. This position will require the employee to be engaged in frequent telephone, computer and e-mail activity.