Infection Preventionist I

At Memorial Hermann, we pursue a common goal of delivering high quality, efficient care while creating exceptional experiences for every member of our community. When we say every member of our community, that includes our employees. We know that when our employees feel cared for, heard and valued, they are inspired to create moments that exceed expectations, while prioritizing safety, compassion, personalization and efficiency. If you want to advance your career and contribute to our vision of creating healthier communities, now and for generations to come, we want you to be a part of our team.

Job Summary

This Infection Preventionist I role is part of the central surveillance IP team and will be responsible for surveillance of healthcare associated infections through chart abstraction, application of standardized criteria and data submission, and will communicate findings to healthcare providers and hospital leadership. The Infection Preventionist I is an active participant in accreditation and licensing activities. This position reports to the System Director of Infection Prevention.

The Infection Preventionist I supports Infection Prevention improvement projects across the continuum of care by recognizing trends and opportunities for improvement based upon surveillance findings. This individual will collect and report healthcare associated infections as required by the State of
Texas, CMS and monthly operating reports.

Job Description

Minimum Qualifications

Education:  Bachelors degree in nursing, public health or related field, Masters preferred

Licenses/Certifications:  CIC certification preferred

Experience / Knowledge / Skills:

• Two (2) years clinical/healthcare experience preferred
• Working knowledge of statistics, microbiology, patient care practices, epidemiology, and occupational health preferred
• Strong communication skills (written, verbal, and presentation)
• Team facilitation skills preferable
• Proficient with Microsoft Office

Principal Accountabilities

• Coordinates infection prevention activities with physicians, department directors, and clinical and non-clinical staff as well as service line assigned.
• Performs surveillance activities and reliably applies standardized criteria.
• Performs surveillance activities and applies an epidemiologic approach to problem solving.
• Submits data in a timely manner as required by the State of Texas and CMS via NHSN and monthly operating reports.
• Provides formal and informal education on disease transmission, prevention and interventions to reduce infection risk to health care providers and patients.
• Recommends changes in systems, practices and reports.
• Communicates findings and recommendations to key stakeholders.
• Coordinates exposure follow up for patients and healthcare workers.
• Participates in robust process improvement infection prevention initiatives.
• Participates in readiness activities and surveys for accreditation and licensure.
• Promotes a culture of patient safety and implementation of high reliability practices related to infection prevention.
• Ensures safe care to patients, staff and visitors; adheres to all Memorial Hermann policies, procedures, and standards within budgetary specifications including time management, supply management, productivity and quality of service.
• Promotes individual professional growth and development by meeting requirements for mandatory/continuing education and skills competency; supports department-based goals which contribute to the success of the organization; serves as preceptor, mentor and resource to less experienced staff.
• Demonstrates commitment to caring for every member of our community by creating compassionate and personalized experiences. Models Memorial Hermann’s service standards by providing safe, caring, personalized and efficient experiences to patients and colleagues.
• Other duties as assigned.