JOB SUMMARY/PURPOSEImplements, organizes, oversees, and evaluates a Samaritan Health Services Infection Prevention program at assigned site(s). Provides expert guidance and advice to Samaritan Health Services hospitals and outpatient clinics. Oversees regulatory compliance related to the program. Oversees the activities of surveillance by collecting monthly nosocomial infection rates; identifies and monitors trends, initiates problem solving and analyzes outcomes.DEPARTMENT DESCRIPTIONThe 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/QUALIFICATIONSOne (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.One (1) of the following required:Five (5) years infection prevention experience. Infection Control Certification (CIC) required within two (2) years of hire.Two (2) years infection prevention experience and three (3) years recent acute care nursing, Medical Laboratory Scientist, healthcare and/or public health experience. Infection Control Certification (CIC) required within two (2) years of hire.Infection Control certification (CIC), one (1) year infection prevention experience and three (3) years recent acute care nursing, Medical Laboratory Scientist, healthcare and/or public health experience.Previous leadership or clinical program coordination experience required.Healthcare provider BLS required within 30 days of hire.Successful completion of APIC EPI education courses preferred.KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIESKnowledge 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 DEMANDSRarely (1 - 10% of the time)Occasionally (11 - 33% of the time)Frequently (34 - 66% of the time)Continually (67 – 100% of the time)WALK - INCLINECLIMB – LADDERLIFT (Floor to Waist: 0"-36") 60 or more LbsLIFT (Knee to chest: 24"-54") 40 - 60 LbsLIFT (Overhead: 54" and above) 40 - 60 LbsCRAWL (hands & knees)PUSH (20-40 pounds force)PULL (20-40 pounds force)LIFT (Floor to Waist: 0"-36") 20 - 40 LbsBEND FORWARD at waistKNEEL (on knees)SITSTANDWALK – LEVEL SURFACECLIMB - STAIRSLIFT (Floor to Waist: 0"-36") 0 - 20 LbsLIFT (Knee to chest: 24"-54") 20 - 40 LbsLIFT (Overhead: 54" and above) 20 - 40 LbsCARRY 1-handed, 0 - 20 poundsCARRY 2-handed, 0 - 20 poundsROTATE TRUNK SittingROTATE TRUNK StandingREACH - UpwardREACH - ForwardMANUAL DEXTERITY Hands/wristsFINGER DEXTERITYPINCH FingersGRASP Hand/Fist
