Baptist Health

Carrie Poston

Infection Prevention Leader

The role of the Infection Preventionist (IP) has evolved into one of the most dynamic and important functions in healthcare. It requires the precision of an epidemiologist, the persistence of an investigator and the communication skills of an educator. As infection prevention continues to tackle complex challenges, sharing insights across the profession has never been more critical.

Lessons from Epidemiology

At its core, infection prevention is epidemiology in action and the reason I branched off into this field. The most important lesson I’ve learned is that every infection tells a story and impacts a patient. We are essentially detective-investigators. When a patient develops an infection, it isn't just a clinical data point; it’s a prompt to look for the "why." My epidemiological background taught me to look beyond the surface, identifying the patterns and environmental triggers that lead to disease transmission. This mindset of systematic investigation—tracking infections, analyzing data and assessing risks—allows us to pivot from reactive responses to proactive mitigation. We aren't just reporting numbers; we are uncovering the clues necessary to interrupt the chain of infection.

Strengthen Surveillance from the Ground Up

Strengthening surveillance requires moving beyond manual data collection. Modern IPs must effectively leverage electronic medical records and specialized infection control software. These tools allow us to perform real-time surveillance and identify risks before they escalate into trends. However, technology is only part of the equation. True monitoring happens on the floor. Active environmental rounding and engaging with frontline staff—nurses, providers, environmental services and facilities or construction staff—provides context that data alone cannot capture. By integrating automated data analysis with human observation, organizations can create a more resilient surveillance system that is both accurate and responsive.

Addressing Practical Safety Challenges

One challenge that deserves more attention is the balance between stringent protocols and the reality of clinical workflows. We often see tension around compliance—for example, enforcing policies or managing PPE fatigue during long-term isolation precautions. When staff feel that policies are disconnected from the "real world" of patient care, engagement drops. We need to focus on “practical safety”—developing policies that are not only evidence-based but also sustainable for busy clinicians. However, staff accountability to do the right thing and follow policy can also be a common challenge. Furthermore, the challenge of onboarding new IPs into this large, daunting knowledge base is significant. We must invest in mentorship and collaborative networks, ensuring that new professionals don't feel isolated while managing these complex responsibilities.

“Every infection tells a story. Our job is to uncover the clues necessary to interrupt the chain of infection.”

Turning Data into Better Care

Turning data into action is about storytelling and engagement. Data analysis means nothing if it doesn't lead to behavior change. I find that data becomes practical when it is presented in an accessible, actionable format at key committees, like the Infection Control Committee or Quality Review Committee. But it also needs to reach the bedside. We transform findings into educational programs, targeted coaching and policy updates. If the data shows a trend in a specific unit, we can’t just send an e-mail; we need to go to that unit, share the findings and collaborate with them to find a solution. We become a resource, not just an auditor. When staff understand the "why" behind the change, they are much more likely to adopt it. I always try to help staff understand that we are a team and that infection prevention is their partner.

Keep Learning, Build Stronger Teams

My advice is to be a continuous learner and prioritize building your professional network. This field is ever-changing, and you will always be learning something new, which is both the joy and the challenge of the role. Don't be afraid to reach out to peers. Professional communities like APIC are invaluable for finding mentors and “phone-a-friends” who can offer guidance on policy questions and career development. Use resources like online competency models to understand your career trajectory from novice to expert.

As you advance into leadership, shift the narrative from “compliance” to “culture.” Invest in emotional intelligence, organizational transparency and cross-departmental collaboration. Be visible and approachable, build strong relationships with frontline teams and hospital leaders, and create an environment where staff feel safe reporting near-misses without fear of retribution. Infection prevention is a shared organizational responsibility, and aligning its goals with the hospital’s strategic mission helps position the function as a strategic partner in patient safety rather than a “policing” entity.

Finally, practice resilience. This is an active, fast-paced career and it can be exhausting. Remember that you are part of a team and contributing to a safer environment for every patient. Seek opportunities to help others, do what’s best for your patients and take care of yourself and your team along the way.