Extending Your Reach: Developing an Infection Control Resource Program

ISSUE: In 2003, the Infection Control practitioners(ICPs) at two facilities in an integrated health care system identified a need for increased involvement of front-line staff in the infection control(IC) programs. To address this need, the ICPs developed an Infection Control Resource(ICR) program. The initial goal of the ICR program was to develop staff expertise in IC, thus empowering them to function as resources, especially in areas and on shifts not readily accessible to IC. The ICR program participants attended educational programs on IC topics, identified IC issues in their work areas, and developed projects to improve IC practices and patient outcomes. PROJECT: The first and most important step in developing the ICR program was to gain the support of hospital and nursing administration and the IC Committee. A model for the ICR program was presented to key stakeholders. This model included the commitment of material and staff resources, as well as the intended benefits and outcomes. Once approved, the ICR program was marketed to staff at informational meetings. Involvement in the ICR program could be used for promotion in the staff nurse clinical ladder series, which was one incentive to participate. The ICR program included staff from a variety of clinical areas, including outpatient locations. RESULTS: The ICR program was considered successful by all stakeholders and has continued from the pilot period to present. The initial goals of the ICR program were met as staff became IC resources for their areas. Additional unexpected benefits included identification of barriers to successful implementation of IC practices and enhanced collaboration with leadership to overcome these barriers. In addition, several ICR participants have expressed interest in IC as a future career. Outstanding achievements were: improved hand hygiene compliance, development of unit specific policies, novel approaches to educational presentations, surveillance of IC practices, and evaluation of safety devices. LESSONS LEARNED: The ICR program has many benefits for the IC program as well as for the facility. The benefits include a dedicated IC resource and a heightened awareness of IC issues at the front-line staff level. It does, however, require a significant investment of time by the ICPs. Staff required more education, direction, and support in project development and management than anticipated. Staffing demands sometimes hindered the ICR memberʹs participation in educational programs and completion of unit-based projects. Leadership support as well as the strong commitment of the ICPs and staff to the program are essential for success.