Infection Preventionist

Company: Memorial Hermann Health System
Location: Houston
Posted on: June 25, 2022

Job Description:

At Memorial Hermann, we're about creating exceptional experiences for both our patients and our employees. Our goal is to provide opportunities for our diverse employee population that develop and grow careers in a team-oriented environment focused on patient care.Every employee, at every level, begins their journey at Memorial Hermann learning about the history of the organization and its established culture built on trust and integrity. Our employees drive this culture, and we want you to be a part of it.Job SummaryThe Infection Preventionist I role executes the implementation of the infection prevention program in a hospital, central and ambulatory care setting. This individual will be involved in the education of patients, health care providers, consultation to leadership and ambulatory/hospital staff. This individual will be involved in monitoring of healthcare practices that will place patients and healthcare providers at risk, 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 a active participant in accreditation and licensing activities. This position reports to the Regional Manager of Infection Prevention.The Infection Preventionist I supports Infection Prevention improvement projects across thecontinuum of care by recognizing trends and opportunities for improvement based upon surveillance findings. The Infection Preventionist I collects and reports healthcare associated infections as required by the State ofTexas, CMS and monthly operating reports.Job DescriptionMinimum QualificationsEducation: Bachelors degree in nursing, public health or related field, Masters preferredLicenses/Certifications: CIC certification preferredExperience / 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
• Demonstrates commitment to the Partners-in-Caring process by integrating our culture in all internal and external customer interactions; delivers on our brand promise of "we advance health" through innovation, accountability, empowerment, collaboration, compassion and results while ensuring one Memorial Hermann.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.
  • Peforms 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.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Keywords: Memorial Hermann Health System, Houston , Infection Preventionist, Other , Houston, Texas