Modern-Day Heroes

Among healthcare professionals who have universally inspired us during the COVID-19 pandemic, Infection Preventionists deserve special recognition for their heroic efforts and outstanding commitment to our communities.

Infection Preventionists are professionals who dedicate their careers to ensuring that the right measures are taken to prevent infections in people within healthcare settings. Given the lack of vaccines available for COVID-19, Infection Preventionists are critical first line defenders of people, both in and out of healthcare facilities. They use their in-depth knowledge of pathogens (germs) and how they spread to keep us safe. Specifically, Infection Preventionists reduce rates of infections and transmission in healthcare settings through tireless monitoring and by creating and updating policies and protocols in response to infection risks.

The COVID-19 pandemic with its potential serious health consequences has led to heightened awareness of infection control. Indeed, given few treatment options to count on, our nations rely on infection prevention strategies to minimize the impact of this new threat. As infection control measures were rapidly implemented, Infection Preventionists were—and continue to be—critical to providing training, monitoring, and support. They are also instrumental in providing coping strategies to deal with other COVID-19 related issues such as:  patient overflows, insufficient PPE supplies, healthcare worker fatigue, and public anxiety.

According to Merriam-Webster a hero is “a person admired for achievements and noble qualities.”  We are grateful for our Infection Preventionists—true modern-day Heroes—and their extraordinary efforts throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

Thank you for all you do to keep us safe!

#WeLoveOurIPs

Jason Hickok, RN, MBA with 15 years of infection prevention experience and responsible for establishing the first infection prevention program for the largest for-profit US healthcare system.