1. Why did you choose a career in infection prevention and control?
My journey started with a medical background in pharmacy and five years of experience as a hospital pharmacist. During that time, I developed a strong interest in patient safety and antimicrobial stewardship. I realized that infection prevention and control (IPC) is one of the most impactful fields in healthcare, directly protecting patients, healthcare workers, and the community. IPC allows me to combine clinical knowledge, epidemiology, surveillance, and leadership to create safer healthcare environments.
2. What advice would you give someone who is interested in an infection prevention and control career?
Start early and study consistently. Use the official content outline to guide your preparation. Focus on high-yield areas such as NHSN definitions, risk assessment, outbreak investigation, and sterilization standards. Practice time management during mock exams. Most importantly, believe in your experience—many questions are scenario-based and rely on practical IPC judgment.
6. How do you stay up-to-date on infection prevention and control practices?
I stay updated by reviewing guidelines from leading public health and infection control organizations, attending webinars and professional conferences, participating in IPC networks, and regularly reviewing current literature. Continuous education and collaboration with colleagues are essential to maintain high standards of practice.
7. How has the CIC® helped you grow professionally and in your career?
The CIC® certification enhanced my professional recognition and opened new opportunities for leadership and collaboration. It strengthened my confidence in policy development, surveillance programs, and quality improvement initiatives. It also positioned me as a trusted resource within my organization and supported my long-term career growth in infection prevention and healthcare quality.
