Infection Preventionist I

JOB SUMMARY / PURPOSE A ssists with implementation of a hospital-wide Infection Prevention Program under direction of the Infection Prevention Program Manager. Assists Samaritan Health Services outpatient clinics with infection prevention needs and education. Assists the organization with regulatory compliance. Conducts the activities of surveillance by collecting health care associated infection data using epidemiological principles to determine infection rates. Identifies and monitors trends, initiates problem solving and analyzes outcomes. DEPARTMENT DESCRIPTION T he Infection Prevention Department provides surveillance, prevention and training/education in the area of infection prevention to Samaritan Health Services. This information is used to lower infection rates thus providing better facilities for patients, visitors, staff and physicians. EXPERIENCE / EDUCATION / QUALIFICATIONS O ne (1) of the following required: Current unencumbered Oregon RN license. ASCP , AMT or equivalent certified Medical Laboratory Scientist. Bachelor's degree in a related field. Two (2) years recent infection prevention, acute care nursing, Medical Laboratory Scientist, healthcare and/or public health experience required. KNOWLEDGE / SKILLS / ABILITIES K nowledge of Public Health, Epidemiology, and Microbiology and ability to work with a diverse population from pediatrics to geriatrics. Basic understanding of age-related differences in caring for and/or communicating with patients and caregivers. Possess personal sensitivity to the needs and experiences of others and a non-judgmental attitude towards persons of differing standards, values, lifestyles, and ages. Effective written and verbal communication skills to perform group presentations, tactfully discuss issues, and listen to and understand complex information/situations. Ability to work with all levels within the organization, facilitate communication, and effectively document related activities. Ability to organize, plan and prioritize work to complete within required time frames and to follow-up on pending issues. Ability to perform multiple tasks simultaneously and thrive in dynamic fast-paced environments and under pressure. Ability to identify complex problems, review related information, employ creativity and alternative thinking to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions. Possess computer skills to perform word processing, reporting, and data management functions. Knowledge of medical records, procedures, and terminology. Ability to read, interpret, and apply policies, procedures, and regulations. Knowledge of State and Federal ( HIPAA ) laws pertaining to confidentiality of protected health information. Ability to comply with laws and maintain confidentiality of patient information. PHYSICAL DEMANDS R arely (1 - 10% of the time) Occasionally (11 - 33% of the time) Frequently (34 - 66% of the time) Continually (67 – 100% of the time) WALK - INCLINE CLIMB – LADDER LIFT (Floor to Waist: 0"-36") 60 or more Lbs LIFT (Knee to chest: 24"-54") 40 - 60 Lbs LIFT (Overhead: 54" and above) 40 - 60 Lbs CRAWL (hands & knees) PULL (20-40 pounds force) LIFT (Floor to Waist: 0"-36") 20 - 40 Lbs KNEEL (on knees) SIT WALK – LEVEL SURFACE CLIMB - STAIRS LIFT (Floor to Waist: 0"-36") 0 - 20 Lbs LIFT (Knee to chest: 24"-54") 20 - 40 Lbs LIFT (Overhead: 54" and above) 20 - 40 Lbs CARRY 1-handed, 0 - 20 pounds CARRY 2-handed, 0 - 20 pounds ROTATE TRUNK S itting ROTATE TRUNK S tanding REACH - Upward MANUAL DEXTERITY H ands/wrists FINGER DEXTERITY PINCH F ingers GRASP H and/Fist STAND BEND FORWARD at waist REACH – Forward PUSH (0-20 pounds force) PUSH (20-40 pounds force) PUSH (40-60 pounds force) PUSH (60 or more pounds force)