In a recent interview with Jacob Hutcherson, Tawanna McInnis-Cole opened up about her experience managing Infection Prevention in a bustling 400-bed hospital. Tawanna highlighted the challenges of working in a large facility where Infection Preventionists couldn’t be everywhere at once and the crucial role that relationship-building played in their strategy to ensure patient safety.
Tawanna explained how, given the size of the facility, her team had to rely on more than just their own efforts to monitor infection risks and maintain high standards of care. They developed strong relationships with staff members across different departments who shared their passion for patient safety. These individuals became their eyes and ears on the ground, helping to identify potential issues even when the Infection Prevention team wasn’t present.
One of the key takeaways from Tawanna’s experience is the importance of creating a network of allies throughout the hospital. By building trust and educating other staff members about infection control principles, they fostered a collaborative environment where everyone took ownership of patient safety. Staff members from various roles would reach out to the Infection Prevention team whenever they spotted something that seemed off, knowing that their concerns would be taken seriously.
Tawanna emphasized that this kind of relationship-building not only enhances the effectiveness of Infection Prevention efforts but also empowers other healthcare professionals to become active participants in maintaining a safe environment. By instilling a shared sense of responsibility, her team was able to extend their impact far beyond their direct reach, ensuring that patient safety remained a priority throughout the hospital.
Her story illustrates the value of a collaborative approach in Infection Prevention, where every team member, regardless of their role, contributes to the overarching goal of keeping patients safe. Tawanna’s approach to building a culture of safety in a large healthcare facility underscores the importance of strong communication, trust, and a shared commitment to excellence in patient care.