What are the responsibilities and job description for the Infection Control RN position at Arden House (2)?
Infection Control Nurse (RN) Position Summary:The Infection Control RN is responsible for planning, coordinating, and directing the infection prevention and control program within a long-term care facility. This role ensures the safety and well-being of residents, staff, and visitors by reducing the risk of infectious disease transmission and maintaining compliance with all regulatory requirements for skilled nursing and assisted living environmentsKey ResponsibilitiesInfection Prevention & Resident SurveillanceConduct ongoing surveillance for healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) and communicable diseases among residents.Monitor residents for signs and symptoms of infection and ensure timely implementation of isolation precautions.Track infections, antibiotic use, and vaccination status (e.g., flu, COVID-19, pneumococcal).Regulatory Compliance & Reporting (LTC-Focused)Ensure compliance with CMS regulations, state Department of Health requirements, CDC recommendations, and OSHA standards.Complete all mandated infection reporting through NHSN for long-term care facilities (e.g., weekly infection counts, vaccination reporting).Prepare infection control reports and participate in state inspections and surveys.Education & Staff TrainingEducate nursing staff, CNAs, ancillary staff, and contract workers on infection control practices.Provide routine training on hand hygiene, PPE use, standard/ transmission-based precautions, and cleaning protocols.Support new hire onboarding with LTC-specific infection prevention training.Policy & Program ManagementDevelop, update, and maintain infection control policies tailored to LTC settings (e.g., outbreak management, cohorting, environmental cleaning).Lead the facility’s Infection Prevention and Control Program (IPCP).Oversee antimicrobial stewardship initiatives per CMS requirements.Outbreak Response & CoordinationLead and manage responses to facility outbreaks (flu, norovirus, COVID-19, MDROs, etc.).Coordinate with local and state public health agencies when necessary.Communicate outbreak-related guidance to staff, residents, and families as appropriate.Environmental & Safety MonitoringConduct regular audits of hand hygiene, PPE use, cleaning and disinfection, and equipment sterilization.Collaborate with housekeeping, maintenance, and dietary departments to ensure environmental safety.Monitor construction/renovation projects for infection risks.Collaboration & LeadershipServe as a key member of the Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement (QAPI) committee.Work closely with the Director of Nursing (DON), Administrator, Medical Director, and interdisciplinary care team.Provide infection prevention input during care planning and risk assessments.QualificationsActive Registered Nurse (RN) license (state-specific).Preferred: BSN and/or experience in long-term care nursing.Certification in Infection Prevention and Control (CIC) preferred or willingness to obtain.Knowledge of LTC regulations (CMS Requirements of Participation).Strong assessment, documentation, and communication skills.Physical & Work RequirementsWork performed in resident care areas, clinical spaces, and administrative offices.Ability to conduct audits and move throughout the facility.Occasional exposure to infectious diseases with appropriate PPE provided.Core CompetenciesUnderstanding of infections common in LTC residentsStrong knowledge of LTC-specific regulations and CMS requirementsAbility to educate diverse staff groupsData tracking and infection trend analysisEffective communication and leadership skillsCrisis response and outbreak management