1. Why did you choose a career in infection prevention and control?
I chose a career in infection prevention and control because I’m truly passionate about patient safety. As a nurse, I witnessed firsthand how infections can dramatically affect patient outcomes, and that experience motivated me to shift my focus toward prevention. For me, working in infection prevention and control allows me to combine my clinical skills and knowledge with a proactive approach to safeguard patients, healthcare workers and the community.
2. What advice would you give someone who is interested in an infection prevention and control career?
My advice for someone who is interested in infection prevention and control would be to focus on building strong relationships with healthcare teams across all departments and to foster a robust culture of infection control. Infection prevention and control is a collaborative effort, and creating trust and rapport helps to ensure that team members understand and embrace their roles in maintaining standards. By advocating for a culture where infection control is everyone’s priority and responsibility, you can contribute to safer healthcare environments, both for patients and staff.
3. What does being a CIC® mean to you?
Being a CIC® is a significant achievement and a source of pride for me. It reflects my commitment to maintaining the highest standards in infection prevention and control, and my dedication to patient safety. The credential allows me to make informed, evidence-based decisions to protect patients, staff and the wider community. It also holds me accountable for my own learning and improvement, ensuring that I stay up to date in a field that is constantly evolving.
4. What was the best studying method for you when preparing for the initial certification examination?
When preparing for the initial CIC certification, the best study method for me was a combination of structured review and practical application. I focused using a study plan that covered each domain, breaking down the learning material into manageable sections and dedicating specific time to each. I found it helpful to use study guides, participate in study groups, and complete practice exams to gauge my understanding. Applying the concepts in my daily work reinforced the material and helped me to grasp how the principles are implemented in real-life situations. By combining these study techniques with hands-on experience, I was able to build both knowledge and confidence for the exam.
5. What advice would you give someone pursuing certification?
My advice would be to start by creating a structured study plan and breaking the content down into manageable sections. Familiarize yourself with each area and use a mix of study resources, such as textbooks, videos, online courses and practice exams to reinforce your learning. It is important to relate the knowledge to practice wherever possible, making it easier to recall during the examination.
6. How do you stay up-to-date on infection prevention and control practices?
I stay up to date on infection prevention and control practices by regularly reviewing the latest guidelines and recommendations from sources such as CDC, WHO and local health authorities. I also read relevant journals and publications, as well as attending webinars and participate in professional development opportunities such as conferences. Networking with other infection control professionals helps me stay connected with my peers and share insights. Additionally, I ensure that I apply new knowledge and evidence-based practices directly in my work, adapting protocols as needed to ensure the highest quality of patient safety and care.
7. How has the CIC® helped you grow professionally and in your career?
Achieving my CIC certification has been a pivotal milestone in my career. It has not only expanded my knowledge in infection control but also sharpened my critical thinking and problem-solving skills in healthcare environments. The certification has enhanced my ability to lead initiatives, drive improvements, and influence positive change within healthcare teams. It has opened doors for more advanced responsibilities, such as policy development and training, and has helped me build stronger professional relationships across multidisciplinary teams. Overall, the CIC® has strengthened my role as an expert in infection prevention and control, which has been instrumental in advancing my career.