Infection Preventionist

Overview

Riverside Healthcare is seeking a dedicated and knowledgeable Infection Preventionist to join our team in Kankakee, Illinois. The Infection Preventionist will be responsible for developing, implementing, and monitoring infection prevention and control programs to ensure a safe environment for patients, staff, and visitors. This role requires expertise in infection control practices, regulatory compliance, and data analysis. The ideal candidate will have strong leadership abilities, exceptional communication skills, and a commitment to maintaining high standards of infection prevention in a healthcare setting.

Demonstrates flexibility with assignments within professional scope/duties/licensure

• Develop, implement, and oversee infection prevention and control policies and procedures in accordance with current guidelines and regulations.
• Conduct regular surveillance and epidemiologic investigation of healthcare-associated infections, including data collection, analysis, and reporting to identify trends and areas for improvement.
• Collaborate with clinical and administrative staff to ensure adherence to infection control practices and address any identified issues.
• Provide education and training to healthcare staff on infection prevention practices, including proper hand hygiene, use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and standard precautions.
• Perform infection risk assessments and recommend strategies to mitigate potential risks and enhance patient and staff safety.
• Monitor and ensure compliance with state, federal, and accreditation standards related to infection control and prevention.
• Lead and participate in infection control investigations and outbreak management, including implementing containment measures and communicating with relevant stakeholders.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of infection control activities, including audits, inspections, and incidents.
• These are duties that MUST be performed in this job, with or without reasonable accommodation.
• The prevention in controlling environment of care related to cleaning, sterilization and asepsiss
• Participate in research activities related to infection prevention and control

• Participate in quality improvement initiatives and contribute to the development of best practices in infection prevention.
• Assist with the development and review of departmental policies and procedures.
• Support other healthcare departments with cross-functional projects and special assignments as needed.

• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in infection prevention and control, preferably within a healthcare setting.
• Strong knowledge of infection control practices, epidemiology, and regulatory requirements.
• Excellent analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and generate actionable insights.
• Proven ability to develop and deliver effective training and education programs.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook) and experience with electronic health record (EHR) systems.
• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion and professionalism.

• Bachelors degree is required
• Certification in Infection Control (CIC) is required or must be obtained within 4 years after employment.

• Masters degree is preferred.

Exposure/Sensory Requirements:

Exposure to:

• Chemicals:
  Alcohol wipes
• Video Display Terminals:
  Average
• Blood and Body Fluids:
  Some potential for exposure during injection and blood draws and during employee assessment of injuries. However, appropriate usage of needle disposal, standard precautions, and protective equipment should minimize risk.
• TB or Airborne Pathogens:
  Possible exposure to employees during daily interactions. However, use of protective wear and standard precautions reduces risk.

Sensory requirements (speech, vision, smell, hearing, touch):

• Speech:
  Required for employee interaction.
• Vision:
  Needed for patient assessment, data entry and reviewing patient…