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CIC® in the Spotlight

Why did you choose a career in infection prevention and control? What does being a CIC® mean to you? What advice would you give to others pursuing certification? We want to put the Spotlight on you!

If you'd like to participate and be our next CIC® in the Spotlight, fill out the Questions and Release forms, and email them as Word Document attachments to info@cbic.org with the subject line "CIC in the Spotlight." Please also attach a headshot in the email so that we can include it in the Spotlight.

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Adrian Russell Sta. Cruz, MBA, BScN, RN, CIC

Being Certified in Infection Control (CIC®) not only shows that I have the experience, knowledge, and capabilities as an infection preventionist. It helped me...

Ahmad Abdel-Rahman Ayaad, CIC

I advise those who are interested in this career to continuously stay up to date in this field due to recurrent disease and epidemics we encounter in our work

Amal Ahmed Ali, CIC

CIC has helped me to find a job in the IPC field and to gain more knowledge and experience.

Anastasiya Chobanova

CIC certification means recognition of knowledge and adding value to my work.

Andrea Harper, MS, MLS, CIC, CPPS, CPHQ

I became CIC certified for a few reasons. To identify any knowledge gaps while I was learning to be an IP, validate my self-training, in other words to prove to myself and others that “I knew what I knew”.

Aneeta Paul, BSc, RN, CIC

The first and foremost learning is the experience itself during the initial stages of working as an infection control professional. Later, APIC guides & CDC bulletins play a key role in polishing the knowledge with updated guidelines.

April Dagandan, BSN, RN, MN, CIC

My advice to someone who is interested to the infection prevention and control career is that, being an ICN can create wonders it will teach us meaningful lessons that we can share to the people around us.

Aulin Vitus, BSN, RN, CIC

Being the infection prevention and control manager at my workplace challenged me to move out of my comfort zone and be more proactive by engaging with different stakeholders.

Azhar Aziz, CIC

Being CIC gives me more confidence, more experience and stimulation to continue my pathway and more success

Benjamin Galvan, MLS(ASCP), CIC

Taking on the role of infection preventionist has given me the opportunity to challenge myself, get out of my comfort zone, and truly engage with my coworkers and colleagues throughout the hospital.

Benjamin Pagarigan, III, MD, BSMT, MHA, CIC

Being a CIC is not just letters or words that can be added after your name. It is a legacy that you can show the world that you have the knowledge and you can confidently manage any facility, any infections, any outbreak with patient safety in mind in making the world safe thru infection prevention.

Brandi Ford, CIC

I have only held my CIC certificate for a short while, but just in merely studying for the exam, I learned so much about my day-to-day work in my current position! I now have more confidence in providing and submitting information to Physicians and to Administrative levels.

Carmen Duke, MPH, CIC

I am very passionate about prevention in every way, which is what led to me pursing a Master’s in Public Health. As I was looking for job opportunities, I realized infection prevention in the hospital setting allows me to use the knowledge I gained through that program and work every day to ensure we are providing the best, safest care to patients.

Daniel Evans, MS, REHS/RS, CPH, CIC

The CIC® credential is far more than a certificate or line on a resumé – it is a mark of responsibility to steward the profession as servant leaders. By earning this credential, we have demonstrated our proficiency in the fundamentals of infection prevention and defined ourselves as leaders in a field that is growing ever more essential in modern society.

Dr. Janet Hsieh-Li, DNP, RN, CIC

Achieving the CIC has been a professional and personal milestone that I am particularly proud of. This nationally recognized credential signifies my commitment to ongoing professional development based on my philosophy of being a life-long learner.

Dr. Sadiya Fatima, MBBS, MD, CIC

Infection prevention and control is the essential branch of medicine I must say because we should do no harm to the sick and for doing this you shall have to be preventing the infection at first place and controlling it at second place if it happens and choosing IPC as a career means you are committed to doing no harm.

Dr. Syed Bari

After CIC certification .I was promoted as one of the member in Research committee and I was also given responsibility for antibiotic policy formulation and its Implementation and I was also part of education and training of healthcare staff

Ehssan Baghagho, MD, PhD, CIC

CIC is a corner stone in my career journey, It opens new opportunities allover the world.

Elsy Mady, CIC

An Infection Control career is a place where you can make a real change in patient’s life not only in the hospital but in the community as well, you can learn everyday something new. So to be in this career my advice is to always be ready to learn, to know how to adapt what you have learned to your field of practice, to pursue certification in the domain.

Emam Sha Badusha, BSN-RN, CIC

It was a dream come true! After continuous hard work and dedication for months, I cleared my CIC exam in the first attempt. Thanks to APIC text, managers and colleagues for sharing the valuable knowledge.

Emily Timkang Quijano, RN, MSN, CIC

CIC had helped me a lot to grow professionally by having that confidence through successfully passing the exam and experience needed to be an IPC professional. I was able to know new knowledge and innovations through CBIC.

Gerlyn Jalea, CIC

Be focused on your goal to pass. Have a dedicated time everyday for reading reference books and review materials. Peer review is also helpful.

Heather Smith, MHA, MLS(ASCP)CM,CIC

I chose to pursue infection prevention and control so that I could make a stronger impact on the safety of our patients through my background in laboratory science. The knowledge I have gained in the lab setting surrounding infection and more specifically Microbiology has served as a great asset. I can take and apply the clinical science across our organization so that we are a proactive organization to infection risks.

Heba Zamel, CIC

I am a person who searches for excellence in my work. I love to help others in solving problems. I like to prevent harm to others, such as patients and workers. I find pleasure in finding solutions when a specific problem occurs. I look for excellence in the scientific field.

Ibrahim Pangcoga Lomondaya, RN, MAN MAEd, CIC

Being a CIC means opportunities for promotion and higher compensation. Confidence and self-worth. Efficiency and accuracy. And most importantly, improved patient outcomes.

Ihab Abd-Allah, MSc, CIC

The journey to be certified was a little longer for me but I was persistent to pass the exam, not only to be certified but also to keep in touch with the up-to-date of the knowledge in infection control practice.

Jasper Kim Wagan

Having certification not only means having knowledge and experience but also expanding my career and use it as a strength and opportunity. CIC® does not stop us from learning new or developed IPC practices. It guides me to pursue more of my career in IPC by not focusing only in one set-up of healthcare but looking at a different context of practices from high to low resource sectors

Jayakirubaraj Shanmugam, CIC

Personally I loved the way the hospital infection control standards works, in order to upgrade and coordinate various health care departments in hospital.

Jessica Tarabay, CIC

The opportunities of infection prevention and control are endless and with healthcare continuing to evolve, infection prevention and control will be essential across the healthcare continuum. Choose the setting that speaks most to you and get certified.

Jithin Raj Rajendran Pillai, RN, CIC

An IP, who pass CIC certification, demonstrates his/her dedication to mastery in the Infection Prevention and Control practice. A balanced study schedule for preparation of CIC exam is the best approach. Make sure you have enough space to refer any of the primary reference materials specified by CBIC.

Joi McMillon BSN, MBA HA, CRRN, WCC, CJCP, HACP-CMS, CIC

The CIC has helped me grow in my career by allowing me to be a subject matter expert able to provide services for the community and...

Kerry Gerding, MSN-IPC, RN, CIC

Having a CIC credential is definitely a bonus when looking for a job. It is also a bonus on your resume, and a status symbol, so to speak, giving you a boost up in credibility when needed at your facility. It is evidence that you understand infection control fundamentals.

Kirsten McNurlin, RN, BSN, CIC

As a new IP, I thrive on the interactions and discussions with my colleagues and other Infection Preventionists through my local APIC Chapter. I served as the President of APIC MT in 2019 and that has been a wonderful growth opportunity for me.

Kristecia Estem, MPH, CIC

For those interested in the field of infection prevention and control, I would recommend contacting an infection preventionist or epidemiologist in an acute care institution or local department of health. These professionals will be able to share their experiences and provide more information regarding the different career pathways.

Lee PeiXing Regina Himeko, BSN, MSc, CIC

Consistently reading up on articles available in APIC website, Infection Preventionist magazine, staying up to date with the country’s regulation and recommended practices in Infection Control, attending available online webinars and courses relating to Infection Prevention and Control.

Leelavathi Kushalnagar Chandra, RN, CIC

Being CIC gives me an immense satisfaction and confidence to work with best scientific knowledge at my work. CIC is the invisible crown with the power of knowledge.

Lerenza L. Howard, CIC

To those that are pursuing certification I would say that you should define which study habits works best for you. Create a study plan and schedule time to study while preparing to take the exam. It felt as though time flew between the time in which I scheduled my exam and the date of the exam, therefore give yourself enough time to adequately study.

Ma Rebecca B Bulaklak, BSN, RM, RN, BCHS, CIC

CIC means Credibility, Commitment and Consistency. Being certified gives me more Confidence and self-worth and I became more efficient and accurate in the performance of my task as an IP which eventually lead to improved patient care and promoted patient safety.

Mara Cranis, MPH, CIC

Not only is a career in infection prevention and control important, but it also provides opportunities for growth, and is ever evolving with emerging and reemerging diseases. What really drew me to infection prevention was the variability of the job.

Marian Kabatoff, RN, BSN, MSc, CIC

Have a copy of the CIC study guide, the APIC manual and ICPs that can help you navigate some of the questions. CIC is worth it if you are pursuing jobs-most jobs require it so it is beneficial to have it.

Maripete Generales Calpa, RN, CIC

If you are fascinated in an infection prevention and control career then follow your heart’s desire; yes, it is a one of a lifetime profession I can say but you need to make a pledge to yourself that you will do it responsibly with a sense of accountability because the safety and health quality of the whole population of your facility is in your hands.

Marko Predic

Obtaining a CIC opens several positions within facilities and organizations. It is the premier tool being used to evaluate proficiency in infection prevention.

Mary Greer Scott, CIC

Know your organisms, build a great network of colleagues across the spectrum of professions, and take some leadership and communication classes.

Maryam Aslam, CIC

Being a CIC gave me more respect and power in my practice in the meaning of when I take a decision related to patient’s condition or when I want to implement a practice, the board of directors sees it coming from somebody who is professional in the career not from an ordinary employee.

Meghan Engbretson, CIC

From a young age I had a keen interest in all things biology, specifically communicable and tropical diseases. The variety of the day-to-day work is what keeps me interested and motivated, in addition to having a direct effect on patient safety.

Mohammad Tariq Sher Zada

CIC Credential is a symbol of pride, it's the commitment towards patients, their families and colleagues safety

Muhammad Yar Sobhan Qadir, CIC

Infectious diseases and early warning system of country needs much attention and there is extreme need for infection preventionist in community health (Public health) field who can use both component (Epidemiology and Infection Prevention) in providing society place with better response against infectious diseases. As my country has witnessed a number of outbreaks that affected lives of a huge number of people...

Murtuza Diwan, BSc, MSc, CIC

There are no rules in Infection Prevention and Control. You go on a case by case basis using the best practices as applicable. Sometimes, it can be overwhelming, as infection prevention and control has it hands in pretty much everything

Mustafeed Uddin Mohammed, MD, CIC

CIC was always a dream for me to become an internationally certified Infection Preventionist right from my pg days since there was no well-defined and structured training in developing countries like India.

Nathalye Mendez, MSN, RN, CIC

I feel confident and reassured that I have the knowledge and mastery to continue my IC duties. By having the certification, practitioners and colleagues take me more serious. It also gives me a sense of pride and at the same time, I am aware of the increased responsibility to continue to grow in my profession.

Neethu Kuriakose, CIC

I am committed to providing best service to my organization and patients. This certificate gives value to my career and made me feel more confident, to be up to the responsibility in educating others, contributing to improving the work environment and paying more attention to preventing infection from the side of society.

Nicola Ewen, B.Pharm, MPH, PMP, CIC

Being a CIC was my goal from the time I started working in public health. I work in Jamaica and I wanted to show persons in my field that there were avenues for recognition of the knowledge and skills we possess but also to encourage further development of IPC professions and practices in my country.

Pallavi Bekal, CIC

Being a CIC gave me the self-confidence to know that I am a competent and knowledgeable IP. Since I became an IP during the COVID Pandemic, I felt like I only knew things related to COVID. Studying for the CIC exam gave me an opportunity to...

Saad Khan, CIC

Back in 2014, when I joined I realized the need for someone to take the responsibility to change the culture and promote patient safety. And I took charge, and ever since then, we could bring positive change in all aspects of patient care and infection prevention & control.

Sangeeta Das Patra, CIC

I chose infection prevention and control because infection control practitioners are experts in preventing and controlling healthcare-associated infections. I can use my knowledge and experience to plan, develop, implement, coordinate, and evaluate system-wide infection prevention and control improvements. As a role model, I can promote the goals of the Infection Prevention and Control program within the larger context of the organization's vision and mission.

Sarah El Sayed

Well, I choose a career in IPC because I appreciate each effort we can do to help our patients not to acquire any infection in their treatment journey in any healthcare facility.

Selma L. Clark, RN, MSN MHA, CIC

CIC means that I am an expert in my field. It reminds me of my commitment to the profession and I am very proud to use the initials at the end of my name.

Shaheena Surani, CIC

CIC credential is a symbol of competency and expertise in the field of infection prevention and control. It’s the commitment towards patient safety by instituting the best practices in clinical care.

Shaimaa Abdelhaseb, MD, PDIC, EBIC, CIC

Practicing what is written in the guidelines is the best way to study IPC, as it put you in the real life inside the hospital & provide you with the whole real hidden challenges.

Sheena Kabeer, RN, CIC

I am more knowledgeable and competent in each area of infection prevention and control after certification.

Shirley Shores, CIC

I started my career in 1978 as the first IP in a community hospital. It sounded interesting-I had just completed a master's in microbiology and felt this was a good way to use what I had learned. I am retiring soon after 42 years in the field. It is ever-changing, never boring, and always something new to learn. And I feel we make a real difference in the lives of patients and employees.

Sophia Noushad Khan, RN,CPHQ,CIC

Utilize all resources to gain the knowledge. Certification shows the credibility of an Infection preventionist and advanced reading makes our day to day work life very easy.

Souranshu Chatterjee, MBBS, MD, CPIC, CIC

My advice will be to be consistent in the efforts not only in studies but also in implementing the infection control standards as the exam evaluates the capability to face and trouble-shoot in various real-life scenarios which one may face.

Steven Roncaioli, MPH, CIC

Do not rush the process. The most valuable part of your certification is the knowledge learned while preparing, not the 3 letters after your name.

Suseela Koruthu, CIC

CIC has helped me a lot to grow professionally by having that confidence through successfully passing the exam and experience needed to be an IPC professional. I was able to know new knowledge and innovations through CBIC. Being a CIC simply means having that dedication, passion and competence in the field of IPC.

Tahani Idris Hamid Idris

As Clinical Microbiologist, I believe on prevent the infection before control it as well as it is my ambition to reduce the resistance of the microorganisms and to spread the knowledge of the preventive measures globally.

Tiffany Kuo, CIC

I chose a career in infection prevention and control because I am passionate about establishing protocols and procedures to protect healthcare workers, visitors, staff, and patients. Physicians and nurses care for the patients, and infection preventionists work ensure that the physicians and nurses (and all who enter our facilities) remain healthy.

Yomna Setate, CIC

My advice to anyone interested in IC career is to go on; it is very important and challenging career.

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