Detailed job description and main responsibilities

Clinical

Under the guidance of Senior Infection Prevention Nurses, assist in the formulation and initiation of appropriate strategies to minimise the risk of infection.

On a Trust-wide basis, provide expert, evidence-based clinical advice on matters relating to infection control and hospital hygiene.

Work within the infection prevention team providing specialist nursing input on the identification, prevention, monitoring and control of infection within the Trust.

Act as an advisor who selects and initiates appropriate actions to enable all grades and disciplines of staff to prevent and control infection.

Work in conjunction with ward managers and the Site Capacity Team regarding the movement and isolation of patients with infection or infectious diseases.

Take an active role in the update of infection control policies and protocols.

To provide effective communication with patients, their relatives and relevant others to provide information and support, which may be of a sensitive and emotive nature.

Explain the significance of microbiological data to members of staff to enable them to prevent and control infection.

Ensure the correct isolation techniques are implemented and reviewed.

Review microbiological data to evaluate the efficiency of the intervention and plan future practice.

Investigate and manage outbreaks seeking advice from those with expertise where necessary.

Use relevant information technology to collect and interpret data to formulate action plans.

Research / Audit / Policy

Incorporate relevant legislation, national and local guidance and public issues into guidance and advice.

Critically appraise and evaluate infection prevention and control practice through a structured audit programme.

Distinguish levels of risk presented by individuals, equipment and the environment; and when necessary audit and advise accordingly.

Identify sources of expert opinion, evidence and information to assess risks.

Synthesise evidence to produce written material in a logical and structured format that is appropriate for staff use.

Under the guidance of senior Infection Prevention Nurses develop clinical guidelines that are evidence based to promote good infection control practice.

Implement audit programmes for the improvement of patient care and the reduction of infection rates.

Produce logical, structured written reports for the infection prevention team and other relevant clinical staff.

Education

Formulate and implement teaching and learning strategies for different groups of staff.

Prepare and use a variety of methods to deliver appropriate information effectively.

Maintain a high profile at ward/ departmental level, to ensure working practices reflect the Trust’s commitment to a continual improvement patient safety.

Recognise and use opportunities to facilitate learning, providing situational support as necessary.

Use reflection to formulate and prioritise strategies for self-development.

Measure own competence through analysis and recognise own strengths and limitations.

Develop and improve own competence in a structured way through self-assessment, conferences and courses.

Use a range of resources to improve academic knowledge and professional development.

Act a resource who is able to educate, advise and inform staff, patients and relatives about infection prevention and control and related issues.

Management

Promote collaborative relationships with others across and within professional boundaries.

Establish and maintain professional networks within the Healthcare organisation.

Facilitate and support change by disseminating knowledge and expertise.

Act as facilitator and change agent enabling staff to embrace strategies for change in relation to Infection Control.

Prioritise workload taking into account varying demands and resources.

Identify problems and be involved in developing improved methods of work in a multidisciplinary team environment.

Develop and maintains optimal relationships within the infection prevention and microbiology teams.