INFECTION PREVENTIONIST /LVN

PURPOSEThe designated Infection Preventionist (IP) manages the infection control and prevention program functions at the facility. This includes education, surveillance, prevention, and control.FUNDAMENTAL INFORMATIONThe facility will follow the CDC and CDPH requirements on the job of the Infection Preventionist. In the absence of a full-time Infection Preventionist, an administrative nurse, such as the Assistant Director of Nursing, the Director of Staff Development, or the Unit Manager often is designated as the Infection Preventionist (IP). The Director of Nursing may be designated as a last resort in the absence of an Infection Preventionist, provided that the regulatory requirement for a DON is fulfilled.QUALIFICATIONS - The designated Infection Preventionist (IP) will:Be a Registered Nurse or a Licensed Vocational Nurse with at least 2 years direct resident care experience;Have a background in infectious diseases, microbiology and geriatrics that includes completion of an Infection Preventionist training program for long-term care; andBe familiar with the nursing care in the facility and with resident care.PROCEDURE1. Collect data on infections (surveillance).2. Assist with implementation and compliance of the Bloodborne Pathogens Exposure Control Plan and Tuberculosis Infection Control Plan.3. Ensure that processes and policies are in place for the following:· Surveillance· Hand Hygiene Procedure· Disease monitoring and reporting· Water Management Plan (Legionella) with the Maintenance/Environment· Services Director of the facility· Standard Precautions, Enhanced Barrier Precautions, and Transmission based isolation procedures· Outbreak control· Immunizations· Antibiotic Stewardship Program· Resident and employee health programs· Environmental Sanitation· Education of staff, residents, and visitors4. Institute isolation precaution measures as needed.5. Keep the Medical Director, Director of Nursing, and Administrator informed.6. Provide in-service education in infection prevention and control.7. Review, analysis and aggregation of data collection.8. Recommend infection control measures as appropriate.9. Report findings to the Infection Control Sub-Committee and to the facility’s Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement (QAPI) committee during scheduled meetings.