The Infection Preventionist (IP) is responsible for the facility infection prevention and control program (IPCP) which is designed to provide a safe, sanitary and comfortable environment , and to help prevent development and transmission of communicable diseases and infections.
Under limited supervision, the Infection Preventionist reports to the Director of Nursing (or Health Services Administrator) and partners with the Medical Director for Antimicrobial Stewardship, and other stakeholders to develop a system of care that promotes sound and scientific infection prevention principles and practices.
Essential Functions
The following duties are normal for this position. These are not exclusive or all-inclusive. Other duties may be required and assigned.
Oversight of the IPCP, which includes at a minimum the following elements:
A system for preventing, identifying , reporting, investigation and controlling infections and communicable diseases for all residents, staff, volunteers, visitors and other individuals providing services under a contractual arrangement based upon the facility assessment and following accepted national standards
Written standards, policies and procedures for the program which must included but are not limited to:
The type and duration of the isolation depending upon the infectious agent or organism involved, and
A requirement that the isolation should be the least restrictive possible for the resident under the circumstances.
A system of surveillance designed to identify possible communicable diseases or infections before they can spread to other persons in the facility,
A system of reporting incidents of possible infection or diseases in the facility
Standard and transmission-based precautions to be followed to prevent the spread of infection
When and how isolation should be used for a resident; including, but not limited to:
The circumstances under which the facility must prohibit employees with a communicable disease or infected skin lesion from direct contact the with resident or their food if direct contact will transmit the disease and
The hand hygiene procedures to be followed by staff involved in direct resident contact.
Implement and maintain a system of recording incidents identified under the IPCP and the corrective actions taken by the facility
Procedures for personnel to handle, store, process and transport linens to as to prevent the spread of infection.
Assist in developing and implementing guidelines for the decontamination and sterilization activities performed in the facility.
Annual review and update of the IPCP
REQUIREMENTS
Education:
Preferred:
Completion of Accredited Nursing Program (RN)
Bachelor’s degree in nursing, epidemiology, microbiology, medical technology, public health, or other healthcare science
Specialty training in Infection Prevention and Control through accredited continuing education
Experience/Training:
Clinical observation and assessment skills
Proficient computer skills necessary to complete documentation, review electronic health records and communicate with team members.
Minimum of two years of nursing experience or one year as a nursing supervisor
Skilled Nursing or Senior Care experience
Certificates, Licenses, Registrations
Current RN license in Applicable State
Current CPR certification
Must meet currently or have completed national training requirements for Infection Prevention and Control
What's in it for you?
HumanGood offers competitive pay and phenomenal benefits. Eligible positions (30 hours/week) start with 20 paid days off, seven paid holidays, a company-matching 401(k) and health plans that give you cash to use for those unexpected health issues. We also offer a generous Tuition Reimbursement benefit to promote your career advancement.
Come see what HumanGood has to offer!