What background do you need to work in infection prevention? It is true that the infection prevention field originated as a nursing role; however, the field has undergone significant changes over the years. Why? The responsibilities of infection preventionists (IPs) have evolved into an expanded career, where a clinical nursing background is only one part of the job — many other areas and departments of the hospital are also covered, and a significant focus for IPs.
We have learned that many in the IP field left during or after COVID, or retired early. From the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC) 2020 MegaSurvey, we know that we are approaching a period when a large number of IPs will be retiring. This data highlights the importance of cultivating a new generation of IPs, which compels us as an industry to look beyond the traditional groups we typically consider IPs. What many have found from doing this is that a diverse IP team, comprised of professionals from a variety of backgrounds and educational training, creates a stronger team that can leverage the expertise of each other.
Internships, shadowing opportunities, and other ways to open up departments to show future and aspiring IPs the day-to-day work are great ways to foster new employees and gain excitement for the profession. Working with local Master of Public Health (MPH) and Public Health programs is a great way to introduce IP as a career and invite future infection preventionists to visit departments and learn the exciting life of an IP.
It is no secret that some individuals have a hard time breaking into the field without prior experience or a nursing background; however, strong and visionary leaders can see the benefits of a diverse team and will celebrate the differences in the backgrounds and educational experiences of their team members. As a non-traditional IP, I have faced numerous challenges throughout my journey, constantly reminding myself that I am the subject matter expert and have worked hard to achieve this position. As an exercise physiologist and EMT, I have paved a way into the IP field, demonstrating that you can come from a variety of paths with the right mindset and dedication. What the profession truly needs is strong leaders who understand the IP field, the power and strength of diversity, and who will join us in celebrating where we came from. For example, the field has begun to see more professionals from the Sterile Processing Department (SPD) transitioning into the IP field, which seems only natural given the strong partnership required to be successful. With many health systems moving towards having high-level disinfection (HLD) and/or sterilization coordinators, these IPs with an SPD background are a perfect fit for these roles!
At the end of the day, if you want to be an IP and you have the heart and passion for it, then you absolutely can! There is no one specific background, experience, or educational path to be an IP. However, being an IP is not easy, and the learning curve may be steep depending on where you come from. The need to learn and develop your IP skills will always be present, as infection preventionists are forever learners. So if you want to be an IP, know that you will have a lot to learn in the beginning, but you will continue learning throughout your entire career.
If you want to work in Infection Prevention—GO FOR IT. Do not let anything hold you back from pursuing a career you are passionate about and motivated about. Your background, education, and experience will be a valuable asset to an Infection Prevention Department, which will be further enhanced by the additional knowledge you will acquire while working in IP.