Infection Preventionist

POSITION SUMMARY/RESPONSIBILITIES
Supports the Director, Infection Control & Prevention, in providing a robust, comprehensive health system-wide infection control program in accordance with current standards of practice and in compliance with regulatory agencies and governmental policies and procedures. The principal goals of the infection control program include protecting patients, healthcare workers, volunteers, students, visitors, and others in the healthcare environment; and accomplishing the goals in a cost-effective manner. The Manager, along with the Director of Infection Control & Prevention, is responsible for the conceptualization, planning, implementation, and coordination of the department’s activities to ensure departmental, hospital and its affiliated ambulatory sites, and health system goals and objectives are met.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE
Minimum of five (5) years of infection prevention experience within a hospital setting is required a Baccalaureate degree in nursing. A Master’s degree in nursing is strongly preferred. Three years of recent infection prevention experience in an acute care hospital setting with progressive leadership experience and/or direct supervision is required. Preferred: post-graduate courses in epidemiology, infection prevention or disease control, completion of CDC or APIC sponsored infection prevention training is desirable, two years of recent clinical nursing experience. Possessing substantial and advanced knowledge of principles and practice of infection prevention and control, epidemiology, infectious diseases, cleaning, disinfection and sterilization, microbiology, management, performance improvement, change management, personnel development, and program development is required. Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills with the ability to identify system vulnerabilities and develop and apply innovative solutions. Working knowledge of statistics and epidemiological principles is required. Demonstrates the ability to analyze and interpret complex data sets and reports, improving patient, quality care, and financial outcomes. Demonstrates the ability to create a climate that fosters compassionate care, innovation, cooperation, collaboration, and teamwork. Highly adaptable and demonstrates an ability to manage multiple priorities. Computer skills required include proficiency in the following Microsoft Office applications: Word, Excel, PowerPoint; graphics display programs such as QI Macros, as well as an ability to function at a high-level when adapting to new programs and electronic health record (EHR) processes and applications.

LICENSURE/CERTIFICATION
Current certification in Infection Prevention and Control by the Certification Board of Infection Control and Epidemiology is required. Nursing candidates must have current State of Texas professional nursing licensure.