Malia DePalma Nogle, CIC

1. Why did you choose a career in infection prevention and control?

I chose a career in infection prevention and control because it combines my passion for public health, communicable disease epidemiology, and improving patient outcomes through prevention. My background in public health taught me the importance of using data, evidence-based practices, and education to stop the spread of infectious diseases before they impact patients and communities. As an Infection Preventionist, I have the opportunity to apply those principles every day by reducing healthcare-associated infections, preparing for emerging infectious diseases, educating healthcare teams, and promoting a culture of safety. Knowing that my work helps protect patients, healthcare workers, and the community is what makes this career so meaningful to me.

2. What advice would you give someone who is interested in an infection prevention and control career?

If you're interested in a career in infection prevention and control, my biggest piece of advice is to stay curious and never stop learning. Infectious diseases, healthcare practices, and regulatory requirements are constantly evolving, so being adaptable and committed to lifelong learning is essential. Build a strong foundation in public health, microbiology, epidemiology, and quality improvement, but also develop your communication and relationship-building skills, as much of the role involves educating, collaborating, and influencing others. Most importantly, remember that infection prevention is about people. Every policy you implement, every education session you provide, and every improvement you make has the potential to protect patients, support healthcare workers, and save lives.

3. What does being a CIC® mean to you?

Earning my CIC certification represents a commitment to excellence in infection prevention and control. It demonstrates that I have the knowledge, expertise, and dedication to protect patients, healthcare workers, and the communities we serve through evidence-based practices. Achieving the CIC was one of the proudest milestones of my career because it reflects not only my passion for the profession but also my commitment to continuous learning and upholding the highest standards of patient safety. To me, being a CIC is more than a credential. It is a responsibility to lead by example, stay current with evolving best practices, and continually strive to improve healthcare quality and outcomes.

4. What was the best studying method for you when preparing for the initial certification examination?

The most effective study method for me was using a combination of resources rather than relying on just one. I worked through the APIC CIC® Certification Study Guide, completed as many practice questions as possible, and reviewed the rationale behind both correct and incorrect answers. I also focused on understanding the concepts instead of simply memorizing facts, especially in areas like epidemiology, surveillance, sterilization and disinfection, and regulatory standards. Breaking the material into manageable sections over several weeks and studying consistently helped me retain the information and feel confident on exam day.

5. What advice would you give someone pursuing certification?

My biggest advice is to take the certification seriously and commit to studying consistently. The CIC exam is comprehensive and tests your understanding of infection prevention principles, not just your ability to memorize information. Develop a study plan, dedicate time each week to review the content, complete plenty of practice questions, and focus on understanding why the correct answers are right. Don't be discouraged by difficult topics and just keep working through them. The time and effort you invest in preparing will not only help you pass the exam but will also make you a stronger and more confident Infection Preventionist.

6. How do you stay up-to-date on infection prevention and control practices?

I stay up-to-date on infection prevention and control practices by regularly reviewing guidance from the CDC, APIC, SHEA, and CBIC, attending webinars and conferences, and collaborating with infection prevention professionals across the region. As a doctoral student, I also incorporate infection prevention topics into much of my coursework, which requires me to continually review current research, evaluate emerging evidence, and stay informed on best practices. Whether through my professional responsibilities or my academic work, I am constantly learning and applying new knowledge to improve patient safety and infection prevention practices.

7. How has the CIC® helped you grow professionally and in your career?

Earning my CIC has been one of the most meaningful milestones in my career. It has strengthened my knowledge and credibility as an Infection Preventionist while giving me greater confidence to lead infection prevention initiatives, educate healthcare teams, and contribute to organizational preparedness. The certification has also opened doors for professional growth, allowing me to serve in leadership roles, participate in regional and national infection prevention initiatives, and continue advancing the profession through education and collaboration. Most importantly, it has reinforced my commitment to lifelong learning and excellence in protecting patients, healthcare workers, and the communities we serve.