How to Become an Infection Control Nurse
Nurses and infection control — probably not the first duo that comes to mind, right? But working as an infection control nurse is an enjoyable career path with big perks, including the chance for international travel and a competitive salary.
These professionals work tirelessly to protect patients and communities from tiny organisms that can cause massive trouble (i.e., COVID-19). With infectious diseases still going strong and a nursing shortage hitting hospitals, your expertise as a healthcare professional in this field is crucial. Ready to answer the call? Check out our step-by-step guide on how to kick-start your journey in this impactful specialty.
What Is Infection Control Nursing?
These professionals prevent and manage infections, acting as frontline defenders of healthcare safety. They implement and manage infection prevention measures, which may involve working with relevant authorities (such as state departments of health or federal organizations). This dynamic job calls for sharp focus, effective communication, and the ability to make thought-out decisions quickly to keep patients and communities safe.
What Do Infection Control Nurses Do?
Unlike bedside nurses, infection control nurses are generally focused on big-picture planning. Sure, you may need to perform usual nursing tasks like head-to-toe assessments and medication administration once in a while, but infection control nurse daily activities typically include:
- Making sure hospitals follow safety rules and infection control plans.
- Checking data for infection trends and risks.
- Creating and enforcing infection control protocols.
- Monitoring and regulating antibiotic usage to prevent antibiotic resistance.
- Educating patients, coworkers, and communities on preventing infections.
- Investigating and handling outbreaks.
- Collaborating with authorities to reduce infection risks.
- Developing strategies to protect patients and communities.
- Staying on top of global health news for preparedness.
- Connecting with the community for awareness and education.
For more insight, explore our infection control nurse job description template.
Where Do They Work?
Infection control nurses can work in various healthcare settings and beyond. Some common places include:
- Hospitals
- Outpatient clinics
- Long-term care facilities
- Public health agencies
- Research institutions
- Corporate settings
- Government agencies
- Educational institutions
- International organizations
- Nonprofit organizations
How to Become an Infection Control Nurse
Let’s explore the key steps to start your journey into this unique nursing specialty.
1. Get a Nursing Degree
The fastest way to become a nurse involves getting an associate degree in nursing (ADN), which can be accomplished in as little as six months. You can also choose to pursue a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree for a more extensive education.
2. Obtain Licensure
To become a licensed registered nurse (RN), you’ll need to pass the NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses) and submit all the necessary documents to your state’s board of nursing.
3. Boost Your Skills with Experience
Gain practical experience in relevant specialties, such as medical-surgical, community health, or critical care. This background forms a solid base for moving into infection control.
4. Attain Infection Control Nurse Certification
There are several organizations offering infection control certification for nurses online. If you want to boost your credibility, you can choose to pursue one of these certifications:
- Certification in Infection Control (CIC)
- Associate — Infection Prevention and Control (a-IPC)
- Long-Term Care Certification in Infection Prevention (LTC-CIP)
- Advanced Certification in Infection Prevention and Control (AD-CIP)
- Certified Healthcare Leader (CHL)
- Certified Instrument Specialist (CIS)
- Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD)
- Certified Healthcare Environmental Services Professional (CHESP)
5. Keep Advancing With Continuing Education
Grow in your knowledge and skills by attending conferences, joining professional organizations, and taking continuing education courses. If you are interested in boosting your credentials, IntelyEdu is here to help. We offer ANCC-accredited online courses that are affordable and can be taken at your own pace and time. Here are our top picks for you:
6. Pursue Advanced Education
If you aim high in your career, you can choose to pursue advanced education by obtaining a master of science in nursing (MSN) or a doctor of nursing practice (DNP) degree, or becoming a nurse practitioner. Although this step isn’t required to join the field of infection control, it can be a great way to take your career to the next level.
Infection Control Nurse Salary
The typical salary for infection control nurses in the U.S. is about $103,000 per year, but your pay can vary based on factors like education, certifications, experience, and geographic location. Still, that number is well above the national average RN salary of $94,480 per year.
If you are open to relocation, consider submitting your nurse resume to one of these top-paying states:
Frequently Asked Questions About Infection Control Nursing
Is infection control nursing dangerous?
Like any healthcare role, infection control comes with its own set of risks. These can include exposure to pathogens, needlestick injuries, and the potential for contracting infections. However, with proper training, adherence to safety protocols, and the use of protective equipment, these risks can be minimized.
Can an LPN be an infection control nurse?
Yes, a licensed practical nurse (LPN) can work in this specialty with the appropriate training and qualifications. However, RNs usually have more job opportunities since they have a broader scope of practice, allowing them to work in different healthcare settings and take on different roles.
How can infection control nurses travel internationally?
They can travel internationally by working for organizations like World Health Organization (WHO) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), where they may be involved in global health initiatives, training programs, and responding to infectious disease outbreaks worldwide.
How do infection control nurses handle outbreaks?
They manage outbreaks by implementing preventive measures, coordinating response plans, and collaborating with public health agencies to identify, isolate, and manage cases effectively.
Find Your Best Job Match on Intelycare
Interested in becoming an infection control nurse or exploring other specialties? Find out how IntelyCare can match you with the best-fitting nursing jobs nationwide.