Infection Preventionist / Healthcare Epidemiologist at UW Medical Center - Montlake

University of Washington•Seattle, WA

4d•Hybrid

About The Position

UW Medical Center-Montlake has an outstanding opportunity for an Infection Preventionist / Healthcare Epidemiologist. This role plays a key part in shaping clinical practice at a magnet-designated medical center. The position oversees Infection Prevention program plans, such as Catheter-Acquired Urinary Tract Infection, Central Line Associated Bloodstream Infection, Environment of Care, and Highly Pathogenic Disease Programs at our medical center.

Requirements

5 years experience in nursing, public health, healthcare or epidemiology
2 years of recent/current experience in infection control and epidemiology
Inpatient clinical care experience preferred
Familiarity with QI methods, database management systems and tools
Current Certification in Infection Control and Epidemiology or obtain within 3 years of hire if not currently certified

Responsibilities

Investigates hospital acquired infections and exposures
Serves as a consultant and advisor to personnel at all levels for infection prevention epidemiology
Consults and advises on patient care issues, equipment evaluation, construction activities and management, disposal of infectious waste, and other infection prevention activities
Reviews quality and safety indicators to identify trends and make recommendations for process improvement implementations
Makes regular rounds to interact with healthcare teams
Educates and coaches staff to promote approved practices, with a goal of reducing the transmission of healthcare acquired infections
Develops and maintains relationships with patient care staff and managers, faculty, and administrative staff
Guides analyses and presentation of healthcare-associated infection surveillance results
Collaborates with hospital leaders, faculty and staff to identify ongoing care concerns and quality of care issues
Monitors compliance with state, local and federal requirements and participates in regulatory and accreditation activities related to infection control.
Investigates and reports HAI through National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) as required by CMS and state law
Acts as a liaison with public health for infection control and exposure issues and assist in epidemiologic investigations of suspected outbreaks
Provides 24-hour coverage for the University of Washington Medical Center in conjunction with other members of the Infection Prevention and Epidemiology team.