RN SDC/Infection Preventionist

• The RN Staff Development Coordinator (SDC) / Infection Preventionist (IP) serves primarily as the SDC for the facility as well as works as the designated individual responsible for the facility’s infection prevention and control program (IPCP).
• The RN SDC / IP plans, organizes, develops, and directs all in-service education to assure patient safety and attain or maintain the highest practicable physical, mental, and psychosocial well-being of each patient in accordance with all applicable laws, regulations, and Life Care standards.
• The RN SDC / IP evaluates the quality of resident care and outcomes as they relate to Healthcare Acquired Infections (HAI) and Community Acquired Infections (CAI) in accordance with all applicable laws, regulations, and Life Care standards. Collects, prepares, and analyzes HAI data. Presents infection data and makes recommendations for actions. Monitors associate compliance with infection control standards through use of barriers and infection prevention measures. Prepares and presents education for the staff, residents, and families. Serves as a resource to all departments and personnel.
• Reports to Director of Nursing (DON)

Education, Experience, and Licensure Requirements

• Nursing diploma (associate's or bachelor's degree in nursing or higher)
• Licensed/registered in applicable State. Must maintain an active Registered Nurse (RN) license in good standing throughout employment.
• Certifications or training per State requirements (e.g., Certified TB Nurse)
• Teaching/education experience preferred
• Specialized IPC training beyond initial professional training or education prior to assuming the role. If a facility's resident population changes, the IP should re-evaluate their knowledge and skills and may need to obtain additional training for the change in the facility’s scope of care.
• One (1) year geriatric nursing experience preferred
• CPR certification upon hire or obtain during orientation. CPR certification must remain current during employment.

Specific Job Requirements

• Desire and ability to effectively train and educate all nursing associates and other associates as applicable
• Expert knowledge in field of practice
• Make independent decisions when circumstances warrant such action
• Knowledgeable of nursing administration practices and procedures as well as the laws, regulations, and guidelines governing nursing administration functions in the post-acute care facility
• Implement and interpret the programs, goals, objectives, policies, and procedures related to facility education and training
• Serves as designated associate responsible for monitoring Public Health Advisories from local, state, and federal agencies including the CDC
• Serves as the on-site IPC for COVID-19 prevention and response activities, in accordance with current CDC recommendations
• Works onsite at the physical facility. May not be an off-site consultant or perform the IP work at a separate location such as a corporate office or affiliated short term acute care facility
• Holds responsibility for the development and accountability of the Antibiotic Stewardship Program
• Knowledgeable of Infection Prevention and Control practices and procedures as well as the laws, regulations, and guidelines governing nursing functions in the post-acute care facility
• Implement and interpret the programs, goals, objectives, policies, and procedures of the Infection Prevention and Control Program (IPCP)
• Perform proficiently in all applicable competency areas
• Maintains professional working relationships with all associates, vendors, etc.
• Maintains confidentiality of all proprietary and/or confidential information
• Understand and follow company policies including harassment and compliance procedures
• Displays integrity and professionalism by adhering to Life Care's Code of Conduct and completes mandatory Code of Conduct and other appropriate compliance training
• Promotes a culture of integrity, maintains an "open door" policy, and does not participate in or allow retaliation against those who report good faith concerns
• Actively implements the compliance program and Code of Conduct and ensures 100% participation by department staff

An Equal Opportunity Employer