In my previous role as an Infection Control Nurse, I spearheaded the development of a comprehensive infection control policy that addressed both routine and outbreak scenarios. This involved collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to ensure all protocols were evidence-based and aligned with CDC guidelines. The implementation process included training sessions for staff and regular audits to ensure compliance, which significantly reduced hospital-acquired infections by 20% within the first year.

I believe in fostering open communication and actively listening to all team members' perspectives. When conflicts arise, I facilitate discussions to understand the root of the disagreement and encourage evidence-based reasoning. By presenting clear data and potential risks associated with differing strategies, I help the team reach a consensus that prioritizes patient safety and adheres to best practices.

Ensuring staff compliance involves a combination of education, reinforcement, and feedback. I conduct regular training sessions and update materials to reflect the latest guidelines. Additionally, I implement a system of positive reinforcement for adherence and provide immediate feedback during audits. By making compliance a part of performance evaluations and recognizing efforts, I motivate staff to prioritize infection control practices consistently.

I maintain a proactive approach to professional development by regularly attending webinars, conferences, and workshops focused on infection prevention. I also subscribe to relevant journals and participate in professional networks to stay updated on the latest research and trends. This continuous learning enables me to integrate new findings into our practices promptly, ensuring our infection prevention strategies remain effective and current.

During a norovirus outbreak in a previous facility, I coordinated the response by quickly implementing isolation protocols and enhancing cleaning procedures. I also worked closely with the healthcare team to ensure proper PPE usage and hand hygiene. By leveraging my communication skills to keep everyone informed and engaged, we managed to contain the outbreak within two weeks, significantly reducing the spread of the virus.