Who are Infection Preventionists (IP)?
According to the CDC, 1 in 31 hospitalized patients will get an infection as a result of the care they receive, and an estimated 75,000 patients will die each year. Because healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) are a threat to patient safety, Optim Medical Center-Screven has made prevention and reduction of these infections a top priority.
Infection Preventionists (IPs) are professionals who make sure healthcare workers and patients are doing all the things they should to prevent infections. They look for patterns of infection within the healthcare facility; observe practices; educate healthcare teams; advise hospital leaders and other professionals; compile infection data; develop policies and procedures; and coordinate with local and national public health agencies.
Patient safety is the number one priority for IPs. They ensure that: (1) healthcare workers wash their hands; (2) healthcare workers get the proper vaccinations; (3) doctors and pharmacists are providing you with the appropriate antibiotics; (4) catheters or indwelling devices are placed in your body after your skin receives proper cleaning and are kept clean and removed as soon as possible; (5) safe injection practices are followed at all times; (6) healthcare workers wear gloves, gowns and masks at the right times; and (7) your room and any equipment that is used on you will be clean. Each of us – patients, families and healthcare personnel – has an important role to play in preventing infection.
During International Infection Prevention Week, OMCS is very proud to recognize our Infection Preventionist, Drucilla McBride, RN. Thank you, Dru, for keeping us safe!
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