Infection Preventionist / Healthcare Epidemiologist

Job Description

University of Washington Medical Center-Montlake has an outstanding opportunity for an Infection Preventionist.

WORK SCHEDULE

• Full time / 40 hours per week
• Primarily Monday-Friday, day shift
• Up to 3 days per week of telework will be allowed, once fully trained

POSITION HIGHLIGHTS

• Play a key role shaping clinical practice at a magnet-designated medical center
• Oversees Infection Prevention program plans, such as, Catheter-Acquired Urinary Tract Infection, Central Line Associated Bloodstream Infection, Environment of Care, and Highly Pathogenic Disease Programs at our medical center

PRIMARY JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

• Investigates hospital acquired infections and exposures
• Serves as a consultant and advisor to personnel at all levels for infection prevention epidemiology
• Consults and advises on patient care issues, equipment evaluation, construction activities and management, disposal of infectious waste, and other infection prevention activities
• Reviews quality and safety indicators to identify trends and make recommendations for process improvement implementations
• Makes regular rounds to interact with healthcare teams
• Educates and coaches staff to promote approved practices, with a goal of reducing the transmission of healthcare acquired infections
• Develops and maintains relationships with patient care staff and managers, faculty, and administrative staff
• Guides analyses and presentation of healthcare-associated infection surveillance results
• Collaborates with hospital leaders, faculty and staff to identify ongoing care concerns and quality of care issues
• Monitors compliance with state, local and federal requirements and participates in regulatory and accreditation activities related to infection control.
• Investigates and reports HAI through National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) as required by CMS and state law
• Acts as a liaison with public health for infection control and exposure issues and assist in epidemiologic investigations of suspected outbreaks
• In conjunction with other members of the Infection Prevention and Epidemiology, provides 24-hour coverage for the University of Washington Medical Center

REQUIREMENTS

• 5 years experience in nursing, public health, healthcare or epidemiology
• 2 years of recent/current experience in infection control and epidemiology; inpatient clinical care experience preferred
• Familiarity with QI methods, database management systems and tools
• Current Certification in Infection Control and Epidemiology or obtain within 3 years of hire if not currently certified
• Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license, certification, and/or registration.

ABOUT UW MEDICAL CENTER-MONTLAKE

UW Medical Center is an acute care academic medical center located in Seattle with two campuses: Montlake and Northwest. As the No. 1 hospital in Seattle and Washington State since 2012 (U.S. News & World Report) and nationally ranked in seven specialties, UW Medical Center prides itself on compassionate patient care as well as its pioneering medical advances.

The UW Medical Center-Montlake campus is located on the edge of the beautiful UW campus which includes many amenities available to our staff as well as very convenient public transit options including the Sound Transit’s light rail station across the street.

Excellence. Exploration. Education.

ABOUT UW MEDICINE - WHERE YOUR IMPACT GOES FURTHER

UW Medicine is Washington’s only health system that includes a top-rated medical school and an internationally recognized research center. UW Medicine’s mission is to improve the health of the public by advancing medical knowledge, providing outstanding primary and specialty care to the people of the region, and preparing tomorrow’s physicians, scientists and other health professionals.

All across UW Medicine, our employees collaborate to perform the highest quality work with integrity and compassion and to create a respectful, welcoming environment where every patient, family, student and colleague is valued and honored. Nearly 29,000 healthcare professionals, researchers, and educators work in the UW Medicine family of organizations that includes: Harborview Medical Center, UW Medical Center - Montlake, UW Medical Center - Northwest, Valley Medical Center, UW Medicine Primary Care, UW Physicians, UW School of Medicine, and Airlift Northwest. 

Become part of our team.  Join our mission to make life healthier for everyone in our community.

Compensation, Benefits and Position Details

Pay Range Minimum:

$126,144.00 annual

Pay Range Maximum:

$156,000.00 annual

Other Compensation:

-

Benefits:

For information about benefits for this position, visit https://www.washington.edu/jobs/benefits-for-uw-staff/

Shift:

First Shift (United States of America)

Temporary or Regular?

This is a regular position

FTE (Full-Time Equivalent):

100.00%

Union/Bargaining Unit:

Not Applicable

About the UW 

Working at the University of Washington provides a unique opportunity to change lives – on our campuses, in our state and around the world.  

UW employees bring their boundless energy, creative problem-solving skills and dedication to building stronger minds and a healthier world. In return, they enjoy outstanding benefits, opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work in an environment known for its diversity, intellectual excitement, artistic pursuits and natural beauty. 

Our Commitment 

The University of Washington is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful and welcoming community for all. As an equal opportunity employer, the University considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, or veteran status consistent with UW Executive Order No. 81.

To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact the Disability Services Office at 206-543-6450 or [email protected]. 

Applicants considered for this position will be required to disclose if they are the subject of any substantiated findings or current investigations related to sexual misconduct at their current employment and past employment. Disclosure is required under Washington state law.