Infection Preventionist

Hackensack Meridian Health - Perth Amboy, NJ

Full-time - Mid Level

Perth Amboy, NJ

Hospitals

About the position

The Infection Preventionist at Hackensack Meridian Health plays a crucial role in supporting the organization's infection surveillance, prevention, and control program. This position involves collaboration with leadership to develop and implement infection prevention strategies, conduct surveillance for healthcare-associated infections, and educate team members and patients. The Infection Preventionist is responsible for ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and improving patient safety through performance improvement initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and evaluate the organizational infection prevention program in collaboration with leadership.
• Conduct surveillance of hospital-acquired infections according to CDC's NHSN definitions.
• Record and report communicable diseases as defined by federal, state, and local levels.
• Develop annual surveillance plans and risk assessments based on served populations and services provided.
• Utilize epidemiologic principles to investigate outbreaks and implement control measures.
• Communicate infection prevention information to various committees and departments.
• Review and monitor compliance with sterilization and disinfection policies and procedures.
• Assist in developing Infection Prevention and Control Construction Risk Assessments (ICRAs) and monitor compliance.
• Conduct rounds on units to observe compliance with infection prevention policies and provide coaching.
• Participate in environment of care rounds and network or hospital-based committees.
• Develop and conduct educational programs regarding infection prevention and control practices.
• Comply with regulatory and mandatory reporting requirements at local, state, and federal levels.
• Utilize performance improvement methodology to enact change and monitor process measures.
• Assess risk of occupational exposures to infectious diseases and develop mitigation strategies.
• Collaborate with all departments and public health officials as needed.
• Evaluate research and evidence-based practices for incorporation into routine practice.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Nursing, Microbiology, Public Health, Medical Technology, Health Care Administration, or related field.
• 2 years of experience in clinical/patient care services or relevant healthcare position.
• Familiarity with software technologies such as Excel, MS Word, and NHSN.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to implement evidence-based guidelines and manage programs and projects.
• Expertise in data collection, analysis, report writing, and data presentation.

Nice-to-haves

• CIC certification from the Certification Board of Infection Control and Epidemiology.
• Certification in infection control within 5 years of beginning practice if not CIC certified.

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Comprehensive health insurance
• Retirement savings plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities