Washington State Employment Security Department
Public Health Nurse II- Infection Prevention Program
Washington State Employment Security Department, Hanceville, Alabama, United States, 35077
Job Summary
The Public Health Nurse II works in a population-based practice setting in Clark County. The position provides expertise in assessing infection prevention practices and capacity, outbreak management, preparation efforts for highly pathogenic infections (e.g., Ebola, measles), and surveillance of Healthcare Associated Infections (HAI) with the primary focus on non-hospital settings (e.g., ambulatory care, long-term care facilities). This is a represented union position that reports directly to the Infection Prevention Program Manager. This position will work an 8-hour schedule Monday through Friday.
Organizational Responsibilities Organizational responsibilities include understanding and promoting the public health mission of the department; providing courteous, respectful, efficient customer service to all department clients; honoring diversity of all department employees and constituents; participating in department training; and striving for personal excellence in public health work.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Nursing. The degree must have been conferred by an institution of higher education and have National Recognition of Accrediting Agencies by the U.S. Secretary of Education, and official transcripts will be required at the time of hire.
Two to four years combination of experience to include clinical experience in a healthcare facility and infection prevention, epidemiology, or infectious disease surveillance experience.
Demonstrated working knowledge of Federal, State and Regional requirements.
Strong background using science and data to make decisions and implement public health services.
Preferred Qualifications
Certificate in Infection Control and Epidemiology (CIC) or eligible for certification within 2 years of hire.
Master’s degree in Nursing (MSN) or Public Health (MPH).
Research and basic statistical knowledge.
Demonstrated experience effectively communicating with others, verbally and in writing, including the use of e-mail systems and the development of complex, clinical, or technical documents.
Association for Practitioners in Infection Control (APIC) training course or equivalent desired.
Infection Prevention Program Activities FTE: 0.6
Partner with facility leaders, physicians, and local, state, and national agencies on activities related to infection prevention.
Maintain current knowledge of federal, state, and local regulations and ensure that the facility leaders are informed of appropriate issues; understand and comply with infection control, safety, and OSHA procedures and regulations.
Follow department policies and procedures and standing orders as well as state and national guidelines for the management of HAI’s.
Support the planning and implementation of Infection Prevention and outbreak response control strategies, programmatic outreach activities and other special projects.
Complete any mandatory or relevant training as determined by the Infection Prevention Program Manager.
Compile and complete any program related reports as required by the Infection Prevention Program Manager.
Support quality assurance programs for Infection Prevention Program.
In partnership with the Program Manager facilitate development or revision of program related policies, procedures or standing orders as needed.
Provide consultation, technical expertise, and educational or training opportunities to public health partners and community stakeholders (e.g., health care providers, schools, LTCF, community-based organizations) to increase local and regional capacity to effectively prevent and control HAI’s and MDRO’s through implementation of evidence-based infection prevention best practices.
Participate in the development and dissemination of educational resources tailored for specific care delivery setting (long term, community based, urgent care) based on gaps identified through assessments and engagement with local partners.
Participate in the development and implementation of an antibiotic stewardship program or other antibiotic utilization management program across Southwest Washington.
Actively participate in community and regional HAI activities to foster stronger partnership building and engagement.
Participate in the maintenance of a comprehensive contact database of community healthcare providers, healthcare facilities, pharmacies, and schools to facilitate rapid and targeted dissemination of health alerts and critical immediate public health information to appropriate internal and external recipients.
Response to Notifiable Conditions & Outbreaks FTE: 0.20
Conduct outbreak investigations
Collaborate with local, state, and regional partners (i.e. medical centers, LTCF, public health labs, state and federal agencies) to respond to infectious disease situations and outbreaks, with a focus on healthcare associated infections (HAI) and multi-drug resistant organisms (MDRO).
Develop partnerships with Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS), relevant Department of Health (DOH) programs (Communicable Disease Epidemiology, Public Health Laboratory, Information Resources Management Division, Communications Office, Health Systems Quality Assurance Division), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and other national associations.
Participate in (and coordinate when needed) local and regional preparation efforts for highly pathogenic infections (e.g. Ebola, MERS, measles).
Engage with healthcare and non-healthcare providers to promote improved surveillance of HAI’s through integration of surveillance systems and enhanced reporting).
General Program Support FTE: 0.05
Performs laboratory result interpretation and facilitates surveillance activities related to infectious diseases and reporting.
Demonstrates proficiency in using various computer applications (e.g. MS Word, Excel, Access and PowerPoint) as applicable to design or complete forms, correspondence, spreadsheets, data entry, etc.
Effectively operates complex equipment and office machinery, which includes computer, printers, scanners, and facsimile machines.
Provides courteous and culturally competent customer service to providers, clients, and the public. Responds to routine inquiries by phone or face to face; listens to questions and explains procedures, rules, or functions according to relevant program guidelines; fulfills requests for information or directs clients to appropriate person or section.
Participate in team planning and implementation of unit work plans; attend unit meetings; and provide input into ongoing program evaluation.
Support the development or revision of program related policies, procedures or standing orders as needed.
Support program quality assurance efforts for HAI and outbreak response related activities to evaluate effectiveness of response efforts, investigational tools, educational resources developed, and trainings and outreach activities provided by CCPH.
Generate as requested by Program Manager complex reports and/or presentations specifically tailored for the intended target audience.
Assist in the processing, packaging, and shipping of human specimens as needed.
Other duties as assigned.
Provide Emergency Services FTE 0.05
In the event of a disaster, Public Health is considered a first responder and public health staff may be asked to respond accordingly. May participate in incident command system response to control disease outbreaks. May serve a command position in incident command system response or participate in mass vaccination clinics on-site and emergency response drills.
Must be able to respond to public health emergencies or exercises at any time, except while on scheduled vacation or other leave. In addition, leaves may be cancelled under public health emergencies.
Skills
Strong organizational and record keeping skills.
Demonstrated knowledge of infection prevention practices, HAI and antimicrobial resistance.
Strong interpersonal skills.
Knowledge of These are the observable and measurable attributes and skills required to successfully perform the essential functions of the job; they are generally demonstrated through qualifying experience, education, or licensure/certification.
Conduct analysis and formulate conclusions
Identify occurrences, reservoirs, incubation periods, periods of communicability, modes of transmission, signs and symptoms, and susceptibility associated with the infectious disease process.
Interpret laboratory and diagnostic tests
Differentiate between colonization and infection
Differentiate between prophylactic, empiric, and therapeutic uses of antimicrobials
Washington State Nurse Practice Act
Ability to
Foster effective working relationships and build consensus
Maintain confidentiality of sensitive information
Plan, organize, prioritize, work independently, and meet deadlines
Use judgment and make sound decisions
Work effectively with individuals at all levels of the organization
Evaluate own knowledge, practice, and learning needs and take steps to improve.
Express ideas effectively both orally and in writing and maintain accurate records.
Effectively use a personal computer, Microsoft Office software, email, and internet to accomplish job functions.
Work in sensitive and stressful situations.
Effectively and respectfully work with persons from diverse backgrounds including; age, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, socioeconomic status, physical characteristics, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, veteran status, health status, genetic predisposition, political belief, mental, or physical ability.
Accept feedback and make behavioral change.
Accurately document in the record interventions and outcomes.
Organize and prioritize multiple program functions.
Seek consultation or collaboration when appropriate.
Provide documentation of immune status to vaccine preventable diseases, and/or participate in the employee immunity program.
If applicable, pass respiratory mask fit-testing and be able to wear standard department-issued masks.
Examples of Duties
Commitment to lifelong learning and practice development.
Must be able to respond to public health emergencies or exercises at any time, except while on scheduled vacation or other leave. In addition, leaves may be cancelled under public health emergencies.
Must protect the privacy and security of protected health information as defined in state and federal law.
Must adhere to OSHA/WISHA guidelines, including but not limited to timely completion of mandatory trainings.
Possess a valid driver’s license and have access to reliable transportation.
Salary Salary Grade: Local 335.11A, Salary Range $38.19 - $54.70 per hour
Close Date Open Until Filled
Recruiter Irene Catherine Chrest
Email Irene.Chrest@clark.wa.gov
Equal Opportunity Employer Clark County is an equal opportunity employer committed to providing equal opportunity in employment, access, and delivery of all county services. Clark County’s Equal Employment Opportunity Plan is available at http://www.clark.wa.gov/human-resources/documents.
Employee Benefits and Additional Compensation Clark County provides regular full-time and part-time employees with a comprehensive benefits package which includes medical, vision and dental insurance, paid leave, flexible spending accounts, life insurance and long-term disability, retirement, and deferred compensation. Some types of employees in some positions and bargaining units might have different benefits and additional compensation. More specific benefit information for the different bargaining units can be found at https://clark.wa.gov/human-resources/employee-benefits. Also please refer to the specific bargaining unit contract for additional compensation at https://clark.wa.gov/human-resources/documents.
Retirement Information All Clark County employees must participate in a WASHINGTON STATE RETIREMENT SYSTEM PLAN (PERS, PSERS or LEOFF). Employee contributions begin the first day of work. Current contribution rates vary by plan but could range from 5% to 15% of gross pay, depending on the plan choice.
For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site here: http://www.drs.wa.gov/. If you are in need of ADA/Section 504 assistance for accommodations, please contact Human Resources at (564) 397-2456; Relay (800) 833-6388.
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Organizational Responsibilities Organizational responsibilities include understanding and promoting the public health mission of the department; providing courteous, respectful, efficient customer service to all department clients; honoring diversity of all department employees and constituents; participating in department training; and striving for personal excellence in public health work.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Nursing. The degree must have been conferred by an institution of higher education and have National Recognition of Accrediting Agencies by the U.S. Secretary of Education, and official transcripts will be required at the time of hire.
Two to four years combination of experience to include clinical experience in a healthcare facility and infection prevention, epidemiology, or infectious disease surveillance experience.
Demonstrated working knowledge of Federal, State and Regional requirements.
Strong background using science and data to make decisions and implement public health services.
Preferred Qualifications
Certificate in Infection Control and Epidemiology (CIC) or eligible for certification within 2 years of hire.
Master’s degree in Nursing (MSN) or Public Health (MPH).
Research and basic statistical knowledge.
Demonstrated experience effectively communicating with others, verbally and in writing, including the use of e-mail systems and the development of complex, clinical, or technical documents.
Association for Practitioners in Infection Control (APIC) training course or equivalent desired.
Infection Prevention Program Activities FTE: 0.6
Partner with facility leaders, physicians, and local, state, and national agencies on activities related to infection prevention.
Maintain current knowledge of federal, state, and local regulations and ensure that the facility leaders are informed of appropriate issues; understand and comply with infection control, safety, and OSHA procedures and regulations.
Follow department policies and procedures and standing orders as well as state and national guidelines for the management of HAI’s.
Support the planning and implementation of Infection Prevention and outbreak response control strategies, programmatic outreach activities and other special projects.
Complete any mandatory or relevant training as determined by the Infection Prevention Program Manager.
Compile and complete any program related reports as required by the Infection Prevention Program Manager.
Support quality assurance programs for Infection Prevention Program.
In partnership with the Program Manager facilitate development or revision of program related policies, procedures or standing orders as needed.
Provide consultation, technical expertise, and educational or training opportunities to public health partners and community stakeholders (e.g., health care providers, schools, LTCF, community-based organizations) to increase local and regional capacity to effectively prevent and control HAI’s and MDRO’s through implementation of evidence-based infection prevention best practices.
Participate in the development and dissemination of educational resources tailored for specific care delivery setting (long term, community based, urgent care) based on gaps identified through assessments and engagement with local partners.
Participate in the development and implementation of an antibiotic stewardship program or other antibiotic utilization management program across Southwest Washington.
Actively participate in community and regional HAI activities to foster stronger partnership building and engagement.
Participate in the maintenance of a comprehensive contact database of community healthcare providers, healthcare facilities, pharmacies, and schools to facilitate rapid and targeted dissemination of health alerts and critical immediate public health information to appropriate internal and external recipients.
Response to Notifiable Conditions & Outbreaks FTE: 0.20
Conduct outbreak investigations
Collaborate with local, state, and regional partners (i.e. medical centers, LTCF, public health labs, state and federal agencies) to respond to infectious disease situations and outbreaks, with a focus on healthcare associated infections (HAI) and multi-drug resistant organisms (MDRO).
Develop partnerships with Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS), relevant Department of Health (DOH) programs (Communicable Disease Epidemiology, Public Health Laboratory, Information Resources Management Division, Communications Office, Health Systems Quality Assurance Division), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and other national associations.
Participate in (and coordinate when needed) local and regional preparation efforts for highly pathogenic infections (e.g. Ebola, MERS, measles).
Engage with healthcare and non-healthcare providers to promote improved surveillance of HAI’s through integration of surveillance systems and enhanced reporting).
General Program Support FTE: 0.05
Performs laboratory result interpretation and facilitates surveillance activities related to infectious diseases and reporting.
Demonstrates proficiency in using various computer applications (e.g. MS Word, Excel, Access and PowerPoint) as applicable to design or complete forms, correspondence, spreadsheets, data entry, etc.
Effectively operates complex equipment and office machinery, which includes computer, printers, scanners, and facsimile machines.
Provides courteous and culturally competent customer service to providers, clients, and the public. Responds to routine inquiries by phone or face to face; listens to questions and explains procedures, rules, or functions according to relevant program guidelines; fulfills requests for information or directs clients to appropriate person or section.
Participate in team planning and implementation of unit work plans; attend unit meetings; and provide input into ongoing program evaluation.
Support the development or revision of program related policies, procedures or standing orders as needed.
Support program quality assurance efforts for HAI and outbreak response related activities to evaluate effectiveness of response efforts, investigational tools, educational resources developed, and trainings and outreach activities provided by CCPH.
Generate as requested by Program Manager complex reports and/or presentations specifically tailored for the intended target audience.
Assist in the processing, packaging, and shipping of human specimens as needed.
Other duties as assigned.
Provide Emergency Services FTE 0.05
In the event of a disaster, Public Health is considered a first responder and public health staff may be asked to respond accordingly. May participate in incident command system response to control disease outbreaks. May serve a command position in incident command system response or participate in mass vaccination clinics on-site and emergency response drills.
Must be able to respond to public health emergencies or exercises at any time, except while on scheduled vacation or other leave. In addition, leaves may be cancelled under public health emergencies.
Skills
Strong organizational and record keeping skills.
Demonstrated knowledge of infection prevention practices, HAI and antimicrobial resistance.
Strong interpersonal skills.
Knowledge of These are the observable and measurable attributes and skills required to successfully perform the essential functions of the job; they are generally demonstrated through qualifying experience, education, or licensure/certification.
Conduct analysis and formulate conclusions
Identify occurrences, reservoirs, incubation periods, periods of communicability, modes of transmission, signs and symptoms, and susceptibility associated with the infectious disease process.
Interpret laboratory and diagnostic tests
Differentiate between colonization and infection
Differentiate between prophylactic, empiric, and therapeutic uses of antimicrobials
Washington State Nurse Practice Act
Ability to
Foster effective working relationships and build consensus
Maintain confidentiality of sensitive information
Plan, organize, prioritize, work independently, and meet deadlines
Use judgment and make sound decisions
Work effectively with individuals at all levels of the organization
Evaluate own knowledge, practice, and learning needs and take steps to improve.
Express ideas effectively both orally and in writing and maintain accurate records.
Effectively use a personal computer, Microsoft Office software, email, and internet to accomplish job functions.
Work in sensitive and stressful situations.
Effectively and respectfully work with persons from diverse backgrounds including; age, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, socioeconomic status, physical characteristics, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, veteran status, health status, genetic predisposition, political belief, mental, or physical ability.
Accept feedback and make behavioral change.
Accurately document in the record interventions and outcomes.
Organize and prioritize multiple program functions.
Seek consultation or collaboration when appropriate.
Provide documentation of immune status to vaccine preventable diseases, and/or participate in the employee immunity program.
If applicable, pass respiratory mask fit-testing and be able to wear standard department-issued masks.
Examples of Duties
Commitment to lifelong learning and practice development.
Must be able to respond to public health emergencies or exercises at any time, except while on scheduled vacation or other leave. In addition, leaves may be cancelled under public health emergencies.
Must protect the privacy and security of protected health information as defined in state and federal law.
Must adhere to OSHA/WISHA guidelines, including but not limited to timely completion of mandatory trainings.
Possess a valid driver’s license and have access to reliable transportation.
Salary Salary Grade: Local 335.11A, Salary Range $38.19 - $54.70 per hour
Close Date Open Until Filled
Recruiter Irene Catherine Chrest
Email Irene.Chrest@clark.wa.gov
Equal Opportunity Employer Clark County is an equal opportunity employer committed to providing equal opportunity in employment, access, and delivery of all county services. Clark County’s Equal Employment Opportunity Plan is available at http://www.clark.wa.gov/human-resources/documents.
Employee Benefits and Additional Compensation Clark County provides regular full-time and part-time employees with a comprehensive benefits package which includes medical, vision and dental insurance, paid leave, flexible spending accounts, life insurance and long-term disability, retirement, and deferred compensation. Some types of employees in some positions and bargaining units might have different benefits and additional compensation. More specific benefit information for the different bargaining units can be found at https://clark.wa.gov/human-resources/employee-benefits. Also please refer to the specific bargaining unit contract for additional compensation at https://clark.wa.gov/human-resources/documents.
Retirement Information All Clark County employees must participate in a WASHINGTON STATE RETIREMENT SYSTEM PLAN (PERS, PSERS or LEOFF). Employee contributions begin the first day of work. Current contribution rates vary by plan but could range from 5% to 15% of gross pay, depending on the plan choice.
For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site here: http://www.drs.wa.gov/. If you are in need of ADA/Section 504 assistance for accommodations, please contact Human Resources at (564) 397-2456; Relay (800) 833-6388.
#J-18808-Ljbffr