The Prevention and Control of Infection Nurse (PCIN) is a key member of the Infection Control Committee (ICC) and Infection Control Team (ICT).

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1 1. JOB IDENTIFICATION Job Title: Prevention and Control of Infection Nurse (PCIN) Department(s): Infection Prevention and Control Team Job Holder Reference: SS767 No of Job Holders: 1 2. JOB PURPOSE The Prevention and Control of Infection Nurse (PCIN) is a key member of the Infection Control Committee (ICC) and Infection Control Team (ICT). The PCIN Is responsible for providing specialist advice and expertise to support the prevention, surveillance and control of infection across NHS Borders, including Acute, Community (including independent practitioners), Mental Health and LD care settings as well as support services (Sometimes referred to collectively as NHS Borders). Provides advice, education and support on all aspects of infection prevention and control to the diverse range of departments and staff across NHS Borders. Contributes to the Annual Infection Control Work Programme on behalf of the Infection Control Team (ICT). As directed by the Senior Infection Control Nurse, leads and collaborates in the day to day implementation of elements of the annual Infection Control Work Programme (ICP), supporting the achievement of Healthcare Improvement Scotland standards in relation to HAI, cleaning services and generic standards. As directed by the Senior Infection Control Nurse, co-ordinates, develops and delivers on compliance with national standards, legislation and authoritative guidance, ensuring that all decisions and actions are based on sound evidence/risk management principles. Provides specialist advice in relation to the purchase, decontamination and condemning of equipment. Provides specialist advice in relation to capital and planning projects. Provides expertise, training and support to NHS Borders and other agencies as required in the areas of infection prevention and control including HAI and decontamination. 1

2 3. ORGANISATIONAL POSITION The PCIN is responsible managerially and professionally accountable to the Senior Infection Control Nurse. 4. SCOPE AND RANGE The PCIN is based at Borders General Hospital (BGH) but provides prevention and control of infection expertise across NHS Borders including specific responsibilities as determined by the Senior Infection Control Nurse. 5. MAIN DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES Management Is a key member of the Infection Control Team (ICT), and the Area Control of Infection Committee (ICC) and other committees as required fulfilling the responsibilities of the post. Collaborates with the Infection Control Doctor and other team members in delivering the objectives of the ICT contained in the ICP. As directed by the Senior Infection Control Nurse, is responsible for the day-to-day implementation of elements of the ICT s Annual Infection Control Work Plan. Delivers education and training as determined through the annual ICP including the mandatory requirements for induction and in-service training. This may include collaborating with NHS Education Scotland (NES) or other external agencies. Interprets and advises senior management on national requirements in relation to infection prevention and control, decontamination and HAI, and collaborates/co-ordinates the development and implementation of action plans to address these where necessary and produce regular reports on progress in these areas. Contributes to the production, updates, implementation and monitoring of infection control guidelines in collaboration with other experts and specialists, promoting and facilitating evidence based infection control practice. Provides expert advice on service development activities including the specification, design and commissioning of new buildings, alterations and contracting. Assists in risk assessing all aspects of the infection prevention and control programme across Borders. Provides specialist infection control advice, support and information to healthcare workers, patients and visitors in order that the spread of infection is prevented or minimised. Identifies infection control issues and notifies senior members of the ICT as appropriate. As directed by the Senior Infection Control Nurse investigate, advise and monitor any incident to ensure that they are effectively resolved and appropriately reviewed to inform future risk assessment and minimise the opportunity for recurrence. Provides professional support and mentoring to members of the Area ICC and cleanliness champions. Collaborating with other departments as appropriate to the role. 2

3 Leadership Designated hand hygiene lead for NHS Borders Contributes to the interpretation and advises as appropriate on national requirements and guidance in relation to infection control, decontamination and HAI. As directed by the Senior Infection Control Nurse, co-ordinates the development, implementation and review of action plans to address these where necessary and produces regular reports on progress in these areas. Provides specialist expertise in the areas of decontamination and promote high levels of competence in this area through developing policies, setting standards and educating, training and motivating all appropriate staff to adhere to these to ensure that the national standards, guidelines and legislation are met. Clinical As directed by the Senior Infection Control Nurse, produces records of patients who pose an infection risk from ward notifications, laboratory reports, Infection Control systems and information collected during routine visits and discussions. Liases with laboratory staff and healthcare staff, informing heads of departments and providing advice on infection control problems/issues and solutions. Identifies as promptly as possible potential infection hazards in patients, staff or equipment. Informs and liaises with hospital departments and other healthcare providers when infected patients are discharged from other hospitals or from the community where appropriate. Advising where prompt isolation of infected patients is required in accordance with policy. As well as implementing other measures as necessary to prevent the spread of infection or organisms that are highly resistant to antibiotics. Provides advice concerning the treatment and/or care of patients. Reports on and evaluates the efficacy of intervention to inform future practice. Research and Audit Participates, manages and supports opportunities for research and development to advance patient care and service development. Organises and undertakes audits of relevant wards and departments to ensure that infection control procedures are being carried out in accordance with policies and guidelines. Providing feedback and supporting the development of action plans and risk assessments. Plans and participates in trials and evaluations of infection prevention and control products. Leads on hand hygiene audit activities. Education and Training Supports the in-house infection prevention and control education programme, and the mandatory training requirements for induction. This could include collaborating with NHS Education for Scotland (NES) and other relevant agencies. Organises and delivers evidence based training to all grades and disciplines of staff, formally and informally as appropriate. 3

4 6. SYSTEMS AND EQUIPMENT The post holder is expected to use computer software regularly for routine work activities and in the preparation and recording of advice, reports, guidance and other documents. This includes: Word processing, spreadsheets, presentation software, databases, system, intranet National and Local database systems (including laboratory reporting, patient management systems and infection control system) Audit and surveillance tools eksf SSTS Advanced use of the internet Regular use of pager, telephone and mobile telephone Use of scanner, printer, photocopier Car driver 7. DECISIONS AND JUDGEMENTS Works effectively and unsupervised Effective Team member Self-directed. Provides specialist, expert advice on infection prevention and control, HAI and decontamination and aspects of capital expenditure for specific services/area as determined by the Senior Infection Control Nurse. Advises and monitors all aspects of HAI on new builds and upgrades to facilities and service provision. Attends professional meetings and conferences and advises the appropriate individuals(s) of any changes in practice necessary/recent advances in this field, following national and local recommendations. Manages time flexibly to attend necessary meetings and to network effectively throughout the geographical area of NHS Borders and further afield outside NHS Borders. Responsible for the generation and review of Infection Prevention and Control Department policies as determined by the Senior Infection Control Nurse. Collaborates in the development of policies that have wider health board influence. Provides advice concerning the treatment and/or care of patients. Reports on and evaluates the efficacy of intervention to inform future practice. Responsible for decision-making and follow through in relation to infection control issues in the absence of the designated ICD or Senior Infection Control Nurse. 8. COMMUNICATIONS AND RELATIONSHIPS Internal (including) The ICD and Microbiology Lab. ICT and Health Protection Team. Area Infection Control Committee. Infection Control Manager Chief Executive of NHS Borders. Public Health Nurse Director Associate Directors of Nursing. General Managers 4

5 Service Managers. Operational Managers Bed Managers Occupational Health. GPs Practice nurses Clinical Directors. ASDU Manager. Heads of Departments multi-disciplinary. Supplies Department (for the co-ordination of trials in clinical areas and effective procurement). Estates Department (advise on new building projects and equipment purchase). Medical, Nursing and Allied Health Professional staff hospital and community. Local Trade Union Representatives. External (including) Private and voluntary sector eg care homes, charities Council colleagues (e.g. social services, environmental health). Health Protection Team. Other health service colleagues. Other agencies (including: HPS, IPS, HFS, HIS, SGHD). Communication Responsibilities and Skills Communicates with all levels of senior clinical and non-clinical staff within NHS Borders, and with senior officials in external organisations. Excellent communication skills, as post holder is required to persuade others to change their practice and adopt new policies and procedures in pursuit of establishing credibility, trust and respect. Strong presentation skills and ability to express a view convincingly and coherently, verbally and in writing. Builds and maintain effective communication between all members of the multidisciplinary team; cross clinical and interdepartmental boundaries with confidence and sensitivity in pursuit of establishing trust and respect throughout the organisation. Ability to deal with complex or stressful situations negotiating with staff, patients and relatives. Demonstrates a balanced, equitable approach to managing difficult situations for patients, staff and visitors. Accountable for managing change within the post holders remit as the organisation develops. Membership of the following NHS Borders groups and committees. Infection Control Team Area Control of Infection Committee Other Groups or Committees as determined by the Senior Infection Control Nurse Membership of the following external groups and committees. Potential for involvement with Working Groups or Committees with national agencies such as Infection Prevention Society (IPS) and HPS to represent NHS Borders in relation to the HAI issues. With specialist colleagues in other NHS organisations in meeting and working groups to discuss issues of common concern, share good practice, contribute to the development of common nursing strategies in conjunction with nursing colleagues at senior level both internally and externally. 5

6 9. PHYSICAL DEMANDS OF THE JOB Normally 37.5 hours per week but some flexibility may be required from time to time. May be required to undertake formally agreed on-call duties. This would not be within an established rota but on an occasional, infrequent basis in extremis only with procedural safeguards to avoid abuse of this function. Responding to unpredictable work patterns and the need to meet deadlines. Travel across Borders as well as outwith the region 10. MOST CHALLENGING/DIFFICULT PARTS OF THE JOB Being adaptable, responsive and professional in a constantly evolving internal environmen and the external demands of external agencies including SGHD, HPS, HFS, HIS. Prioritising and balancing the demands of the role within NHS Borders alongside national demands and initiatives that form part of the National Health Plan. Have the ability to influence others and embed the highest possible standards of management processes and day to day working practices relating to infection prevention and control, decontamination and HAI. Supporting the IPCT in keeping the organisation abreast and ahead of the rapidly developing and politically significant agendas for decontamination and related infection control matters. Ensuring and facilitating delivery on infection control agendas through adaptation and revision of the action plans in light of new information, direction developments and /or deadlines. 11. KNOWLEDGE, TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED TO DO THE JOB First level registered nurse with degree level or equivalent experience. Diploma in Infection Control Nursing or ENB329 Certificate (Infection Control Nursing) or equivalent or working towards Skills and expertise to communicate this knowledge to support delivery of the Infection Control Work Plan. Specialist/professional knowledge and skills combined with excellent/well-developed communication and interpersonal skills to engage others and influence their practice and behaviour. Interpersonal skills including negotiation, influencing and persuading, facilitating, conflict resolution and the ability to form positive working relations. Experienced in communicating with all grades and disciplines, and able to balance conflicting issues whilst maintaining the individual patient s care needs. Self-motivation, cheerfulness, confidence and ability to cope under stress. Effective participation in a team. Proven leadership and project management skills and experience are essential. The stature to earn the confidence and respect necessary to effectively deliver the agenda of major change and will therefore be able to demonstrate previous successful project management experience. Experience in teaching. Experience with a range of computer software packages including: Word processing, spreadsheets, presentation software, databases, system, intranet Current driving licence. 6

7 11. Infection Prevention and Control Nurse Person Specification Knowledge Training and Experience Required 1. Qualifications Essential First level Registered Nurse to degree level or equivalent experience and a currently valid registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Council Completion of NHS Education Scotland Cleanliness Champions Programme Either qualified with a Diploma in Infection Control Nursing, ENB329 Certificate (Infection Control Nursing) or equivalent or already working towards completion of same. If not already in possession of the relevant infection control qualification; successful applicant Must agree to commencement and completion of same Desirable Relevant teaching qualification such as ENB 998 or willing to work towards one 2. Experience Has a minimum of 5 years post registration experience as a qualified nurse. Experience of managing audit activity including reporting, development of action plans and follow-up. Experience of delivering Education Evidence of inter-team and interagency working. Involvement with external agencies such as HPS or NES Minimum 1 years recent direct experience in infection control in an NHS setting. 3. Skills Competent user of computer software including Microsoft Excel, Word, Outlook Accuracy and attention to detail in relation to computer data entry and recording of information Excellent verbal communication and writing skills including, tact, diplomacy, negotiation, sensitivity, motivating change.. Evidence of the use of Specialist/professional knowledge and skills combined with excellent/welldeveloped communication and interpersonal skills to engage others and influence their practice and behaviour 7

8 Good presentation skills Professional and friendly telephone manner 4. Personal Qualities 5. Other Ability to work alone and as part of a Team including willingness to assist other members of the Infection Control Team as required Ability to work calmly and effectively when under pressure Ability to organise time to meet competing priorities Have the confidence and insight to ask for help when required Willingness to undertake additional relevant training including that relating to computer software Has understanding and awareness of infection control issues within national and political context Current driving license 8

9 TERMS AND CONDITIONS Grade and salary: Hours of work: Annual leave: Public Holidays: Superannuation: Band 6: 25,783-34,530 per annum, pro rata Permanent, 37.5 hours per week 27 days per annum pro rata Details of other types of leave entitlement (such as sick leave) are set out in the Agenda for Change handbooks. 8 days per annum pro rata on dates designated by NHS Borders Details of other types of leave entitlement (such as sick leave) are set out in the Agenda for Change handbook. The post-holder is entitled to join the NHS superannuation pension scheme. If Unsuccessful: If you have NOT heard from us within 4 WEEKS of the closing date, then we regret that your application has not been successful on this occasion. However, we appreciate your interest in working with NHS Borders and your time and effort in completing the application form. We would welcome your application for future posts. Equal Opportunities: In NHS Borders, we believe that all staff should be treated equally in employment. We will not discriminate against any member of staff, or job applicant, on grounds of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion and belief, sex and sexual orientation. Trade Union membership. Disclosure checks: We carry out criminal record checks on new staff who fall within certain staff groups within NHS Borders, through Disclosure Scotland. We send out Disclosure Forms to all shortlisted candidates for these staff groups, and ask for these to be completed and returned at interview. If a successful-at-interview candidate forgets to bring their completed form to interview, then they will be required to return the form (and proofs of identity) within 7 days, otherwise the provisional job offer will be withdrawn. Unsuccessful candidates forms will be shredded. The Rehabilitation of Offenders Act does not apply to this post. Tobacco policy: We have a Tobacco policy in place. When selecting staff, we do not discriminate against applicants who smoke, but staff must observe our policy on smoking. Hepatitis B: We offer Hepatitis B immunisation through our Occupational Health Service (OHS). If you think you may be at risk of contracting Hepatitis B through your job, you should ask for this immunisation at OHS. If your work involves exposure-prone procedures, you must keep to the document Protecting Health Care Workers and Patients from Hepatitis B, and the NHSiS Management Executive Directive on this issue. You must be immune to Hepatitis B, and if you cannot prove that you are immune, OHS will investigate to find out whether you are Hepatitis B positive or not. 9

10 Health and Safety at Work: You must take look after the health and safety of yourself and anyone else who may be affected by what you do at work. You must also co-operate with us to make sure that we keep to legal and organisational safety regulations. You can get more information from the NHS Borders Health & Safety Adviser. The closing date for completed application forms is: 5pm on Wednesday 12 March