Infection Control Support Associate

Position Overview

Under the direction of site leadership and receiving Infection Prevention & Control (IP&C) clinical leadership and direction from the Regional Nurse 4, Infection Prevention & Control-Long Term Care (IP&C- LTC) and working within the Mission, Vision, Values and Strategic Direction of Southern Health-Santé Sud, the Infection Control Support Associate (ICSA) performs key responsibilities including:

• Implements, monitors, and evaluates site's adherence to provincial and regional IP&C policies, procedures, and operational directives and implements actions to ensure consistency of practice and compliance.
• Directs staff and oversees timely implementation of recommended IP&C measures.
• Communicates and collaborates regarding IP&C issues with site management and regional IP&C leadership.
• Ensures compliance with established provincial and regional infection control surveillance in Long Term Care (LTC).
• Provides IP&C guidance including: routine practices and additional precautions, sterilization, disinfection and cleaning processes, outbreak management, construction, renovation and maintenance activities including preventative measures for resident safety, and consultation with workplace health safety personnel on staff issues associated with prevention and control of communicable disease transmission.

The incumbent exercises the appropriate level of initiative and independent judgment in determining work priorities, work methods to be employed and action to be taken on unusual matters. The position functions in a manner that is consistent with the Mission, Vision and Values; and the policies of Southern Health-Santé Sud.

Experience

• Minimum 2 years' experience in a clinical health setting, OR experience and training in microbiology and infectious diseases, epidemiology, or diagnostics.
• Pervious work experience in the field of IP&C preferred.

Education (Degree/Diploma/Certificate)

• Baccalaureate degree in a health-related field with focus in direct clinical care, microbiology, epidemiology or public health. Completion of an IPAC Canada endorsed Infection Prevention and Control Course. The successful candidate will be expected to complete course within 1 year of hire, if not already completed.

Certification/Licensure/Registration

• Certification in Infection Control from Certification Board of Infection Control and Epidemiology, Incorporated preferred.
• Current registration in good standing with professional licensing body required.
• Obtaining and maintaining membership with IPAC Canada required as a condition of employment.

Qualifications and Skills

• Knowledge of the key toles and responsibilities of IP&C.
• Knowledge of the Personal Health Information Act (PHIA).
• Knowledge of microbiology, infectious disease, applied epidemiology and biostatistics
• Demonstrated knowledge of IP&C competencies.
• Demonstrated knowledge and skill in the use of relevant computer software applications, including Microsoft Office.
• Demonstrated ability to function effectively and collaboratively as a member of a multidisciplinary team to achieve identified objectives.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
• Demonstrated ability to function effectively in a self-directed, independent manner with limited supervision.
• Demonstrated ability to prioritize, interpret and respond appropriately to multiple concurrent activities.
• Complies with all relevant facility, regional, and provincial policies, procedures, standards, operational directives/procedures and other guidance documents.
• Provides cross coverage for PCH IP&C positions within SH-SS as required.
• Performs other duties and functions related to this job description not exceeding stated skills and capabilities as requested.
• Given the cultural diversity of our region, the ability to respect and promote a culturally diverse population is required.
• Proficiency of both official languages is essential for target and designated bilingual positions.
• Demonstrated ability to respect confidentiality including paper, electronic formats and other mediums.
• Good work and attendance record.
• Requires a valid Class 5 driver's license, an all-purpose insured vehicle and liability insurance of at least $1,000,000.00.

Physical Requirements

• Demonstrated ability to meet the physical and mental demands of the job.
• Fast-paced environment.
• Contact with the public, patients/residents/clients and other members of the healthcare team.
• May be required to sit or stand for extended periods of time.
• Depending on site, may be required to provide IP&C services at multiple sites, provide cross- coverage for IP&C colleagues.
• Many encounter individuals with aggressive behavior.
• No hazardous or significantly unpleasant conditions.
• May work occasionally evenings and weekends as necessary.
• Will be required to travel to other regional facilities as the position duties may require.