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The Infection Preventionist (IP) possesses and maintains knowledge of healthcare-associated infection (HAI) surveillance methods in order to routinely identify, investigate, analyze and interpret findings related to HAIs among patients and healthcare personnel. Maintains working knowledge of various databases (NHSN, MedMined, Excel, etc.) utilized to record HAI findings, as well as knowledge required to run reports from these databases to discuss/present findings to various groups and committees. Must be able to provide/communicate evidence-based recommendations to support and enhance the department, unit/facility-level corrective action plans related to HAI prevention and reduction.

REPORTS TO:

JOB SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES:

* Performs healthcare-associated infection (HAI) surveillance

* Conducts Infection Prevention rounds (environmental, construction, clinical, hand hygiene)

* Teaches / instructs on infection prevention related topics and HAI prevention

* Committee participation/collaboration

* Outbreak investigation as needed

* Regulatory requirements

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

BSN required, MSN preferred. Certification in Infection Control (CIC) preferred or must obtain within 3 year of hire. Previous hospital infection prevention preferred or five years' clinical experience in acute hospital setting with 2-4 years as preceptor/charge nurse (for nursing candidates) preferred.

REQUIRED LICENSURES/CERTIFICATIONS/REGISTRATIONS:

Current license from Texas State Board of Nurse Examiners. For non-nurse, current MLS, CLS or MT required. Infection Prevention and Control fundamentals training course desired (APIC, TSICP). Will obtain Certification in Infection Control within 3 year of hire.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

* Demonstrates effective interpersonal skills necessary to interact in a professional manner with

peers, supervisors, physicians, administrators and patients.

* Knowledge of general nursing practices, infection control, sterilization and disinfection and

epidemiological principles.

* Language - Ability to effectively present verbal and/or written information as well as respond to

the most sensitive inquiries or complaints.

* Mathematical - Ability to apply mathematical concepts such as fractions, percentages, rates and

proportions to practical situations. Create and interpret various charts and graphs to present in

understandable format.

* Reasoning - Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions.

* Information Management and Systems - This job requires computer and systems competency in

the following areas: Enters data, retrieves data, assembles and organizes data, uses and

analyzes data. Integrates diverse sources of data, including maintaining statistical reports Other

skills include but not limited to:

o Well organized with the ability to handle various tasks simultaneously.

o Ability to prioritize, plan and execute without close supervision.

o Excellent interpersonal skills, ability to use tact, judgment and diplomacy.

o Excellent oral and written communication skills.

o Ability to actively participate on teams to defined outcomes in a timely manner.

o Ability to coach and provide feedback.

INTERACTION WITH OTHER DEPARTMENTS AND OTHER RELATIONSHIPS:

Administration, physicians, directors, managers, staff, patients and guests

PHYSICAL CAPABILITIES:

Work is of light demand. Walking and standing most of the time on duty. Fine motor skills for data entry and near visual acuity for surveillance. Talking and hearing is essential in instructing staff and communicating with peers, receiving provider's orders and patient's condition reports. Frequent prolonged periods of sitting. Lifting requirements to 20 pounds or less 10% of the time.

ENVIRONMENTAL/WORKING CONDITIONS:

Subject to inside environmental conditions. Protection from weather conditions, not necessarily from temperature changes. Hours may vary to meet specific deadlines.

DIRECT REPORTS:

UMC Health System provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment on the basis of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

* Request for accommodations in the hire process should be directed to UMC Human Resources.*