Abstract
ISSUE: The increased complexity of patient care requires specialized knowledge of infectious disease processes. The Infection Control Liaison Nurse (ICLN) role was established to advance the role of the bedside nurse and augment the Infection Prevention and Control team. ICLNs provide communication, role modeling and problem solving at the unit level. Training, goal setting and support for these nurses has not been standardized resulting in variable levels of success across organizations. We report a chapter project which provided community-wide orientation and ongoing education for ICLNs, thereby providing uniformity. PROJECT: Rochester Finger Lakes Chapter 107 designed and conducted an annual ICLN orientation course and an annual teaching day. Our goal was not only to standardize the education and practice components presented, but to prepare Infection Prevention and Control Professionals (ICPs) for the future. In addition to the basic content, there were networking sessions and oral presentations by experienced ICLNs. This format provided an opportunity to share infection prevention success stories across the region. RESULTS: ICLNs identified projects in which their expertise could be utilized to improve patient care. Best practice models were shared among institutions and projects to enhance hand hygiene at the unit level were implemented across the region. In one institution, an ICP position was assumed by one of the ICLNs. Program evaluation scores averaged 4.7 out of a possible 5. Informal interviews identified increased job satisfaction. LESSONS LEARNED: ICLNs provide a valuable link between the patient care unit and the Infection Prevention and Control Program. An ICLN program is also a potential source for tomorrow's leaders in our field. Just as the role of the ICP has evolved, so must the role of the ICLN. Standardizing education and providing a framework for networking increases community-wide success and more efficiently utilizes limited resources.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
