Infection Preventionist

Job Summary

The Infection Preventionist plays a vital role in keeping Midland Community Healthcare Services patients and employees safe by identifying, investigating, monitoring, and reporting healthcare-associated infections. This role ensures compliance with infection control standards set by the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, The Joint Commission, as well as state and federal guidelines. The Infection Preventionist collaborates with teams and individuals to create infection prevention strategies, provide feedback, and sustain those strategies.

Responsibilities

• Demonstrate comprehensive knowledge of infection control processes for a primary healthcare setting.
• Develop, implement, and evaluate the organizational Infection Control program.
• Develop, interpret, and assist with implementation of infection prevention and control policies and protocols.
• Teach principles and practical application of infection control to all levels of MCHS personnel.
• Develop an annual surveillance (Risk Management) plan based on the populations served, services provided, and analysis of surveillance data.
• Monitor clinics to ensure required reports are completed in a timely manner.
• Maintain current knowledge of infection control standards.
• Ensure employee compliance with policies and procedures pertaining to Infection Control.
• Communicate infection prevention and control information and data to various committees and healthcare workers across the organization as assigned.
• Comply with regulatory and mandatory reporting requirements at the local, state, and federal levels.
• Develop immunization and screening program for employees.
• Apply work restrictions and recommendations related to communicable disease or following an exposure.

Job Expectations

• Maintain certification and licensure requirements.
• Advocate for patient safety, health worker safety, and safe practices.
• Assess and address learning needs of those served.
• Stay current on infection prevention and control regulatory and accreditation standards.
• Readily share knowledge and expertise.
• Work collaboratively with others, providing direction when necessary.
• Participate in an infection prevention and control professional organization/association.

Qualifications

• Current Registered Nurse license in the state of Texas.
• 3–5 years’ experience as a Registered Nurse.
• Willingness to become Certified in Infection Control within 36 months of hire date.
• Working knowledge of microbiology, epidemiology, infectious diseases, aseptic techniques, and current practices.
• Verifiable documentation of certification from the Certification Board of Infection Control and Epidemiology (acceptable in lieu of an RN license).
• No felony results on a criminal background screening.
• Drug screen test with a negative result.

Critical Skills and Abilities

• Oral comprehension, expression, recognition, and clarity.
• Written comprehension and expression.
• Computer & technology skills: ability to navigate Microsoft Office and learn proprietary medical software packages.
• Time management: ability to prioritize tasks to best serve patients and employees.
• Cultural competency: ability to work with people of various cultures, social statuses, and external entities.
• Familiarity with infection prevention software and related technology.

Work Environment / Conditions

This position is classified as BBP Class I, involving potential exposure to blood‑borne pathogens through mucous membrane or skin contact with blood, body fluids, tissues, or splashes. Additional exposures may include latex products, puncture hazards, and fumes. Physical demands include the ability to lift a minimum of 25 lb (or more) independently, interact with patients, operate office equipment, read and verify patient information, and move freely about front office and medical record areas. Vision is required for reading records and computer screens. Reasonable accommodations will be made for employees with disabilities in accordance with EEOC regulations.