Shiji Thampy, CIC

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

I chose a career in infection prevention and control because I wanted to contribute to patient safety beyond individual patient care. Infection prevention gives me the opportunity to protect not only patients, but also healthcare workers and the wider healthcare community. I am passionate about identifying risks, improving practices, and implementing evidence-based measures that prevent avoidable infections. Knowing that effective infection

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

My advice would be to stay curious and never stop learning. Infection prevention is a dynamic field that requires strong clinical knowledge, critical thinking, communication, surveillance skills, and the ability to work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams. Learn the fundamentals well, understand the reasoning behind infection prevention practices, and remain open to feedback. Most importantly, remember that infection prevention is not only about policies and guidelines—it is about influencing practice and creating a strong culture of patient safety.

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

Becoming CIC® certified is one of the proudest milestones in my professional journey. To me, the CIC® represents commitment, credibility, and professional excellence in infection prevention and control. Achieving the certification validated the knowledge and experience I have developed throughout my career and strengthened my confidence as an infection prevention professional. It also reminds me that certification is not the end of learning; it is a responsibility to continue growing, improving, and contributing to safer healthcare.

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

My most effective study method was combining structured reading with continuous question practice. I used the APIC Text, CIC Certification Championship – 1st Edition, and the CIC Practice Test as important resources during my preparation. Also I had joined a study group.
I focused on understanding the concepts rather than simply memorizing information and tried to relate what I studied to situations I encountered in my day-to-day infection prevention practice. Practicing questions was especially helpful because it allowed me to identify my weaker areas, improve my approach to scenario-based questions, and become familiar with the examination style.
Whenever I answered a question incorrectly, I went back to the topic, reviewed the rationale, and strengthened my understanding before moving forward. For me, consistent study, repeated practice, and understanding the rationale behind each answer were the key strategies that helped me prepare confidently for the CIC® examination.

5. What advice would you give someone pursuing certification?

Start with a realistic study plan and be consistent. The amount of information can initially feel overwhelming, so divide the content into manageable sections and focus on understanding concepts rather than memorizing facts. Practice as many questions as possible and carefully review why an answer is right or wrong. Give additional attention to areas where you are less confident, particularly epidemiology, surveillance, statistics, outbreak investigation, and infection prevention principles. Most importantly, believe in your preparation and do not allow difficult practice questions to discourage you.

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

I stay current by regularly reviewing evidence-based guidelines, professional resources, scientific literature, and updates from recognized infection prevention and public health organizations. I also participate in continuing education, webinars, professional discussions, and training programs. Working in infection prevention itself provides continuous learning opportunities because every surveillance finding, audit, investigation, and emerging infection can lead us to review current evidence and improve our practices.

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

Achieving the CIC® has strengthened my professional confidence and reinforced my identity as an infection prevention professional. It has given me greater confidence to apply evidence-based principles, communicate recommendations, and contribute to infection prevention and patient safety initiatives. As an Infection Control Manager, I see the certification not simply as a credential after my name, but as motivation to maintain high professional standards, continue developing my leadership skills, and encourage others in the field to pursue professional growth and certification as well