Job Description

Why Northwest Health?

We know it's not just about finding a job. It's about finding a place where you are respected, valued and where your work is purposeful and fulfilling. A place where your talent is recognized, professional development is encouraged and career advancement is possible.

Team members across our organization enjoy working in team environments and making a difference in the health and well-being of the patients they serve. Their efforts are rewarded through numerous recognition programs and our affiliates also offer team member benefits, including:

Competitive compensation Paid time off plans for vacations, holidays and illness Health insurance, including coverage for medical, dental, vision and prescription drugs 401(k) retirement plan Education & student loan assistance Life and disability insurance Flexible spending accounts

About Northwest Arkansas

Northwest Arkansas is one of the fastest growing and most dynamic regions in America—a perfect blend of urban sophistication and small town charm.  If you aren’t local and haven’t already discovered this, check out www.northwestarkansas.org to see why NWA keeps winning awards as a best place to live!

 

Job Summary 

The Infection Control Coordinator is responsible for developing, implementing, and managing the hospital-wide infection prevention and control program. This role includes conducting active surveillance, analyzing infection trends, educating staff, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. The Infection Control Coordinator collaborates with multidisciplinary teams to minimize infection risks and provides leadership in responding to emerging infectious threats. 

Essential Functions

Develops, implements, and evaluates a comprehensive infection prevention and control program, ensuring alignment with hospital policies, national standards, and regulatory requirements. Conducts active surveillance of infections, using a systematic approach to collect, analyze, and report data related to hospital-acquired infections (HAIs). Prepares and presents infection control data, using graphs, tables, and other formats to communicate findings effectively to medical staff committees and hospital leadership. Uses benchmarks based on national standards to calculate and analyze infection rates, identifying trends and areas for improvement. Collaborates with departments and medical staff to develop and implement infection control policies, procedures, and protocols that reduce infection risks. Provides consultation and education to staff on infection prevention practices, including hand hygiene, use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and other control measures. Oversees the employee immunization and TB skin test programs, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements. Manages follow-up processes for staff exposure to bloodborne pathogens and body fluids, ensuring proper documentation and reporting. Investigates potential and actual infection outbreaks, coordinating with appropriate hospital departments and external agencies to implement containment measures. Partners with the laboratory to ensure timely reporting of infectious diseases to local, state, and national health agencies. Maintains up-to-date knowledge of infection prevention trends and regulatory requirements by attending conferences, reviewing literature, and participating in professional organizations such as the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC). Prepares and delivers education sessions for staff, ensuring awareness of infection control standards and responsibilities. Regularly reviews and revises infection prevention policies and procedures, incorporating the latest national standards and recommendations. Performs other duties as assigned. Complies with all policies and standards.

Qualifications

2-4 years of experience in infection prevention, epidemiology, or a related field required

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Expertise in infection prevention practices, epidemiology, and data analysis. Strong knowledge of regulatory and accreditation requirements related to infection control. Effective communication and teaching skills to educate staff and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams. Proficiency in using data collection tools and creating reports to analyze infection trends. Ability to respond effectively to infectious disease outbreaks and public health emergencies. Leadership and problem-solving skills to guide policy development and process improvements. Commitment to maintaining confidentiality and professionalism in handling sensitive health data.

Licenses and Certifications

CIC - Certified in Infection Control within two years of hire required RN - Registered Nurse - State Licensure and/or Compact State Licensure preferred