1. Why did you choose a career in infection prevention and control?
In 2019, I was offered a position in infection prevention and control. At first, I wasn’t interested, but as I began to understand how pathogens could be prevented—especially in nursing homes—I became enthusiastic about learning more. This field allowed me to make a meaningful impact on both patient safety and employee well-being. Seeing the direct effect of preventive measures in reducing healthcare-associated infections has been a real achievement for me as an Infection Preventionist.
2. What advice would you give someone who is interested in an infection prevention and control career?
If you’re interested in IPC, start by gaining experience in healthcare settings where you can witness firsthand the importance of infection control. Shadowing an Infection Preventionist can provide valuable insight. I also recommend joining professional organizations like APIC or SHEA and pursuing continuing education opportunities to build your expertise and stay up-to-date with best practices.
3. What does being a CIC® mean to you?
As a Registered Nurse, my foundation is rooted in compassion and advocacy for patients. Becoming certified in infection control demonstrates that I also possess the expertise to prevent harm before it happens.
The CIC® credential validates my knowledge and ability to apply evidence-based practices in real-world settings—whether it’s reducing hospital-acquired infections, ensuring safe practices in dialysis and acute care, or guiding colleagues in following proper protocols.
To me, the CIC® is a mark of professional excellence that enhances my credibility as both a caregiver and a leader. It has positioned me as a trusted expert in infection prevention and allows me to contribute meaningfully to both patient and staff safety.
5. What was the best studying method for you when preparing for the initial certification examination?
I used a combination of resources, including the APIC Text and CBIC practice exams. Instead of just memorizing, I focused on deeply understanding the key concepts, which helped me retain and apply the knowledge effectively.
6. What advice would you give someone pursuing certification?
Start by reviewing the CBIC content outline and identifying the areas you need to focus on. Practice with sample questions and try to apply the concepts in your daily work to reinforce your understanding. I highly recommend reading the APIC review book—it contains everything you need. Study it wholeheartedly, and you’ll be well-prepared for the exam.
7. How do you stay up-to-date on infection prevention and control practices?
I stay up-to-date on infection prevention and control by actively engaging in professional development. I regularly review updated guidelines from the CDC, WHO, APIC, and other evidence-based resources. I also ensure to maintain membership with APIC and my local chapter, as they provide valuable updates, resources, and networking opportunities that help me stay informed on the most current infection prevention practices