Infection Control LPN

About the Role

The Infection Control Coordinator (IC) coordinates infection control activities for the facility to minimize risks of exposure for patients, families, and employees. The nurse provides assessment, surveillance, data collection, reporting, and education to employees, patients, and families in accordance with Joint Commission, Federal and State Regulations, Oceans' Mission, policies and procedures, CDC, and performance improvement standards. This role coordinates and communicates activities under the supervision of the Infection Control Officer and Director of Nursing (DON).

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement the Annual Infection Control Plan and Annual Infection Control Program Evaluation based on recommendations from and approval of the Infection Control Committee.
• Review, assess, and investigate lab data relative to infection rates, sources, and trends associated with specific objectives outlined in the Infection Control Plan.
• Perform environmental inspections to ensure adherence to infection control standards of practice.
• Collaborate with Department Managers to devise efficient, reliable, and cost-effective ways to ensure the integrity of infection control activities and the safety of patients and staff.
• Formulate plans for corrections related to deficient infection control practices.
• Prepare the agenda, minutes, and infection control reports for Infection Control Committee meetings.
• Serve as liaison for the Infection Control Committee with hospital committees and departments.
• Act as liaison for the public health department in reporting and follow-up of "Reportable Communicable Diseases."
• Assist in planning and presenting orientation and in-service training programs for hospital staff and physicians.
• Collaborate with Employee Health on preventive actions, screening, and monitoring of staff exposures to infectious diseases.
• Work with plant operations to ensure patient and staff safety during construction projects by minimizing potential exposure.
• Collaborate with the certified Infection Control Preventionist to control and prevent infections.
• Perform other related duties as required.

Requirements

• Valid license to practice as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in the state of practice.
• One year of recent experience in a clinical setting.
• Two years’ experience in Employee Health and/or Infection Control activities in a Behavioral Health hospital setting preferred.

Qualifications & Skills

• Ability to work in high-stress environments and assess potential for patient escalation.
• Strong oral and written communication skills to consistently achieve positive results with internal and external customers.
• Highly organized with an understanding and sensitivity to serve culturally diverse and special needs populations (e.g., Chronically Mentally Ill, Geriatric, Chemical Dependency).
• Knowledge of normal physical and emotional development.
• Critical thinking abilities for continuous improvement of patient care.
• Self-confidence and ability to think conceptually in leading and directing others.

Work Environment

• Subject to frequent interruptions and occasional pressure due to multiple calls and inquiries.
• High-paced and potentially stressful; must be able to cope mentally and physically with the atmosphere.
• May experience disagreeable odors, sights, and/or unpredictable patient behavior.