What are the responsibilities and job description for the Infection Preventionist position at Mercy Health BSMH?
Responsible for management of Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) activities under the guidance of the Manager of Infection Prevention. Provides coordination and support for the implementation of a system-wide infection control and prevention program to identify, prevent, and eliminate or reduce sources of infection. Assists in the implementation and monitoring of processes to reduce hospital-associated infections (HAI). Ensures compliance with infection control standards, meeting all local, State, and Federal regulatory requirements.
Associate must live within BSMH Footprint. Travel required as needed to all BSMH facilities.
Applies epidemiologic principles and statistical methods, including risk stratification to identify target populations, analyzes trends and risk factors, and designs and evaluates prevention and control strategies.
Performs surveillance using NHSN criteria, documentation, and investigation of HAI through review of admission diagnoses, laboratory results, isolation, patient records, consultation requests, post-discharge surveillance, and autopsy findings
Utilizes computer-based programs for tracking, reporting, and disseminating information from surveillance activities. Prepares statistical reports utilizing epidemiologic principles to identify and analyze infection trends. Investigate, document, and report infection control issues to the manager and IPC/Quality Committee.
Investigate infection outbreaks utilizing laboratory results in consultation with the IPC Manager, Infectious Disease Physician, County/State public health departments, and, if necessary, the Center for Disease Control.
Implements mitigation strategies in the event of communicable disease outbreaks within the health care facilities and/or community
Functions as an integral part of quality and performance improvement initiatives
Participates in environmental rounds and construction risk assessments for inpatient, outpatient, and off-site patient care areas by identifying infection prevention issues with the multidisciplinary health care team and providing sound interventions to maintain patient, visitor, and associate safety.
Provides expert knowledge and guidance in IPC and epidemiology through the integration of evidence-based practice, policy and procedures, and compliance with regulatory and accreditation agency standards.
Provides guidance for high-level disinfection and sterilization practices by supporting proper cleaning, disinfection and sterilization practices of medical instruments and equipment.
Collaborates with Employee Health in evaluating employee exposures to communicable diseases and supports coordination of appropriate follow-up.
Serves as a content expert and educational resource for health care providers, ancillary staff, patients, families, and the public, providing education and increasing awareness of HAI and IPC measures.
Serves as a leader, mentor, and role model through collaboration and knowledge sharing with facility personnel, as well as with other healthcare professionals within and outside the facility.
Collaborates in the fiscal management of the service through evaluation of technology and products for infection prevention, incorporating fiscal assessments into program evaluation.
Education Qualifications - List the minimum education, training, and experience required to perform the essential functions of the position.
Required Minimum Education:
Bachelor’s Degree
Specialty/Major
Nursing or healthcare-related field
Preferred Education
Master’s Degree
Specialty/Major
Nursing or another health-related field
Licensing/ Certification – Must be non-expired/active unless otherwise stated. Registration in a specialty healthcare field of study noted above, e.g., Registered Nurse, Public Health, Medical Technician, etc.
Licensure/Certification Required
Certification in Infection Control (CIC), awarded by the Certification Board of Infection Control and Epidemiology, Inc. (CBIC), within 3 years.
Licensure/Certification Preferred
Certification in Infection Control (CIC), awarded by the Certification Board of Infection Control and Epidemiology, Inc. (CBIC). Completion of advanced education in Infection Prevention. Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST), Certified endoscope preprocessor (CER) or Certified Instrument Specialist (CIS).
Minimum Qualifications
Minimum Years and Type of Experience
Experience of 2-5 years in direct clinical patient care or a related healthcare field. Prefer infection control/prevention experience.
Other Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Required
Demonstrated ability/experience to lead and facilitate multi-disciplinary teams; Demonstrated experience in performance improvement. Proficient in computer skills, including Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
Other Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Preferred
Knowledge of improvement science.
Many of our opportunities reward* your hard work with:Comprehensive, affordable medical, dental and vision plans
Prescription drug coverage
Flexible spending accounts
Life insurance w/AD&D
Employer contributions to retirement savings plan when eligible
Paid time off
Educational Assistance
And much more
*Benefits offerings vary according to employment status
All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, genetic information, or protected veteran status, and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability. If you'd like to view a copy of the affirmative action plan or policy statement for Mercy Health – Youngstown, Ohio or Bon Secours – Franklin, Virginia; Petersburg, Virginia; and Emporia, Virginia, which are Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employers, please email recruitment@mercy.com. If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request a reasonable accommodation as part of the employment selection process, please contact The Talent Acquisition Team at recruitment@mercy.com
