Registered Nurse (RN) Infection Preventionist

Evaluates the quality of resident care and outcomes related to Healthcare Acquired Infections (HAI) and Community Acquired Infections (CAI) in accordance with applicable laws, regulations, and Life Care standards.

Responsibilities

• Collects, prepares, and analyzes HAI data.
• Presents infection data and makes recommendations for actions.
• Monitors associate compliance with infection control standards through use of barriers and infection prevention measures.
• Prepares and presents education for staff, residents, and families.
• Serves as a resource to all departments and personnel.
• Serves as designated associate responsible for monitoring Public Health Advisories from local, state, and federal agencies including the CDC.
• Serves as the on-site IPC for COVID-19 prevention and response activities, in accordance with current CDC recommendations.
• Holds responsibility for the development and accountability of the Antibiotic Stewardship Program.
• Maintains a current knowledge of infection control trends, methodologies, and employee health practices.
• Performs work within the scope of his/her license.
• Makes independent decisions when circumstances warrant such action.
• Implements and interprets the programs, goals, objectives, policies, and procedures of the Infection Prevention and Control Program.
• Performs proficiently in all applicable competency areas.
• Maintains professional working relationships with all associates, vendors, etc.
• Maintains confidentiality of all proprietary and/or confidential information.
• Understands and follows company policies including harassment and compliance procedures.
• Displays integrity and professionalism by adhering to Life Care's Code of Conduct and completes mandatory Code of Conduct and other appropriate compliance training.

Requirements

• Nursing diploma (associate's or bachelor's degree in nursing).
• Licensed/registered in applicable State. Must maintain an active Registered Nurse (RN) license in good standing throughout employment.
• CPR certification upon hire or obtain during orientation. CPR certification must remain current during employment.
• Specialized IPC training beyond initial professional training or education prior to assuming the role. If a facility's resident population changes, the IP should re-evaluate their knowledge and skills and may need to obtain additional training for the change in the facility’s scope of care.
• Prior experience with geriatrics preferred.
• Certifications or training per State requirements (e.g., Certified TB Nurse).

Specific Job Requirements

• Works onsite at the physical facility. May not be an off-site consultant or perform the IP work at a separate location such as a corporate office or affiliated short-term acute care facility.
• Knowledgeable of Infection Prevention and Control practices and procedures as well as the laws, regulations, and guidelines governing nursing functions in the post-acute care facility.