Lee PeiXing Regina Himeko, BSN, MSc, CIC

Location: Singapore

Company/Organization: Allium Healthcare

Title: Senior Nurse Manager

First Certified: November 2020

1. Why you choose a career in Infection Prevention & Control?

During my career journey as a nurse, I find that Infection prevention interventions are vital to patient
safety and staff well-being in the workplace. Everyone places a part as a team member in infection
prevention and control in healthcare setting. I find passion and joy in bringing people together towards a
common goal, that is, to provide an environment of safety for everyone in the workplace and reduce the
risk of infection for all.

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

Go ahead, as every new beginning starts with an interest. Remain resilient and meticulous in this field of
work as we are the advocates of infection prevention and safety.

3. What does being a CIC mean to you?

Being certified as a CIC truly motivates me to pursue the field of Infection Prevention & Control in
greater depth. It is a testament of knowledge mastery and valuable experiences gained from years of
effort and journey as an Infection Control Nurse. The CIC experience allowed me to gain a rewarding
journey in understanding this specialty field and provided a self -reflection of my knowledge in Infection
Control. This certification allows to me reflect on how I can contribute in this field even further with the
knowledge gained, to reduce risk of infection for my team of staff and patients under my care. Lastly,
bringing the entire team together as a resource personnel in Infection Control is truly rewarding and
enriching.

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

I read through the list of recommended books in APIC and studied all available books and reference
readings concerning Infection Control during my past experiences in this role. Additionally, I have gone
through online webinars concerning domains in Infection Prevention and Control. Finally, complete the
CIC Exam preparation textbook before taking the certification examination. Being an APIC member also
allowed me to gain access to valuable reading materials in Infection Prevention and Control which was
useful.

5. What advice would you give to someone pursuing certification?

Take your time to read through all available materials and self-study guide systematically. Do not rush
through the examination preparation. Make a study plan and time-table to complete each domain to
avoid missing out important details and information. There were also support chapter groups in APIC to
form a knowledge sharing base with each other to share experiences. It will be a fruitful and rewarding
journey.

6. How do you stay up to date on Infection Prevention and Control Practices?

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.

7. Are you part of an APIC / IPAC Canada Chapter? If so, would you recommend it to others?

Yes. It is useful in gathering people together to allow knowledge and experience sharing. There will be
realistic scenario sharing as well as interventions that are proven useful.

8. How has the CIC helped you grow professionally in your career?

It has allowed me to become more independent in planning and decision-making process relating to
Infection Prevention & Control. I am able to conduct better situational risk assessment on specific issues
and able to provide a more holistic approach as compared to the past. I am able to perform better
analysis in the professional field with an extensive knowledge base during the certification journey. The
experience has shaped me to become a more confident resource nurse in Infection Control.

 

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