Ambulatory Staff as Infection Control Liaisons: An Untapped Resource

Abstract

<h3>Background</h3> Infection prevention resources in the outpatient setting lag behind the inpatient setting, with either no dedicated infection preventionist (IP) or an IP responsible for numerous clinics, often in remote locations. A well-established infection control liaison program focused on inpatient infection prevention exists at our facility providing nurses with IP knowledge to be a unit resource. Outpatient IP and clinic staff met to develop a framework for an Ambulatory Infection Control Liaison (AICL) program modeled on the inpatient program. <h3>Methods</h3> Criteria was developed to include attendance at the North Carolina Curriculum for Infection Control in Outpatient Settings course, ability and willingness to be the clinic IP resource and active participation in AICL meetings. Meetings scheduled on a non-recurring basis, focused primarily on foundational infection prevention principles including hand hygiene and standard precautions. To gain momentum and further meet the needs of the AICLs, a learning needs assessment to include preferred meeting topics, meeting times/days/locations and learning methods was distributed to AICLs with a 41% response rate. <h3>Results</h3> Through this assessment, maturation of the AICL group continued with regularly scheduled bi-monthly meetings, standardized meeting formats and implementation of remote video conferencing for off-campus clinics. Content was expanded including topics identified from the needs assessment. Post meeting, a summary, attendance list and copy of the presentation were posted on the intranet. <h3>Conclusions</h3> Outpatient clinic staff no longer view Infection prevention focused solely on inpatient care. The AICL meetings provide a collegial setting to address infection issues unique to outpatients. This program contributes to enhanced relationships and increased familiarity between outpatient clinical staff with their assigned IP. The group fosters networking between clinics to include best practices and best products. We believe our AICL program supports safer patient care by providing ready access to IPs knowledgeable of the unique aspects of outpatient care.