Infection Control Practitioner

Across our three hospitals and eight satellite sites, Scarborough Health Network (SHN) is shaping the future of care. Our many programs and services are designed around the needs of one of Canada’s most vibrant and diverse communities. We are home to North America’s largest nephrology program, as well as the designated cardiac care and spine centre for Scarborough and surrounding communities to the east. We are proud to be a community-affiliated teaching site for the University of Toronto and partner with a number of other universities and colleges, helping to train the next generation of health care professionals. SHN is the recipient of the Excellence in Diversity and Inclusion Award, from the Canadian College of Health Leaders, for our work led by the Organizational Development and Diversity Department on our Leading edge Communities of Inclusion, Inclusion Calendar and our innovative Health Equity Certificate programs. We are also proud to be named Canada’s Most Admired Corporate Cultures for 2023! Learn more at shn.ca

Job Description:

Position Overview:
Reporting to the Manager of Infection Prevention and Control, the Infection Control Practitioner (ICP) is an integral member of the Infection Prevention and Control (IPAC) team supporting the implementation and evaluation of the infection prevention and control program. The ICP works closely with patient care programs and support service departments and liaises with external agencies and academic institutions in support of infection prevention and control standards and best practice guidelines for the promotion of patient and staff safety.

Duties include surveillance activities, outbreak management, acting as a consultant internally and externally, providing education to staff, physicians and volunteers, keeping current with Infection Prevention and Control literature, standards and guidelines, participating in research activities, and applying continuous quality improvement principles. The role also includes providing IPAC recommendations for construction and design projects.

Requirements:
• Baccalaureate degree in a health care related field or equivalent combination of education and proven expertise in infection prevention and control with leadership skills is essential.
• Minimum two (2) years experience in infection control in a hospital setting.
• Current registration with the Certification Board of Infection Control and Epidemiology required or a commitment to completing certification within the first year.
• Certification with Central Service Association of Ontario (CSAO) for Medical Device Reprocessing preferred.
• Completion of formal education and training through the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) on infection control during construction, renovation and maintenance of health care facilities preferred.
• Member of Infection Prevention and Control Canada preferred.
• Demonstrates excellent interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills.
• Demonstrates strong organizational, time-management and critical thinking skills.
• Possesses knowledge of, and is able to utilize adult education principles in program development and teaching.
• Possesses knowledge of epidemiological principles, statistics, microbiology, and infectious diseases.
• Possesses knowledge of and utilizes the principles of continuous quality improvement.
• Strong analytical and research skills. Proficiency in searching medical health databases with strong understanding of medical terminology.
• Demonstrates advanced skill in keyboarding and computer literacy including use of Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) and use of patient care databases (e.g. Meditech).
• Demonstrates the ability to integrate infection prevention and control knowledge into practice.
• Exposure to Lean principles, an understanding of methodologies and tools and a commitment to the use of these in support of providing the best healthcare experience for our patients
• Works independently and is self-motivated, self-directed while possessing the ability to work in a collaborative manner
• Demonstrates the ability to effectively articulate the important components of an infection prevention and control program with all levels of personnel/clients
• Expert Infection Prevention & Control knowledge required to act as a resource and problem solve Infection Prevention & Control issues
• Demonstrates values consistent with SHN's Code of Conduct and is committed to fostering a healthy and positive work environment in accordance with Health & Safety policy and legislation
• Engages in ethical conduct and strives to understand and appreciate the diversity of the Scarborough population and community
• Excellent work performance and attendance record

Accommodation and Diversity Statement:
Scarborough Health Network (SHN) embraces and celebrates our community’s unique multicultural heritage and diversity. SHN is an equal opportunity employer, dedicated to a culture of inclusiveness and diversity reflecting our diverse patients, staff and community alike.
We are committed to fostering an environment of equity and inclusivity where every person can work and receive care safely, openly and honestly. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, nation of origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status, marital or family status, belief system, or other factors related to one’s personal identity and/or values.
We are committed to providing barrier-free and accessible employment practices in compliance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). Should you require accommodation through any stage of the recruitment process, please make them known when contacted and we will work with you to meet your needs.

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