While chatting with Jacob Hutcherson from the Voice for Infection Prevention, Cristine Lacerna recounted her initial, eye-opening experience in Infection Prevention, which began in an unexpected setting: a construction site. Jacob asked Cristine to share her first story from her new role, and she described a memorable meeting that highlighted the diverse responsibilities of an Infection Preventionist.
Cristine’s first meeting involved speaking with a lineup of construction workers in the hospital lobby. She was puzzled about why she, an Infection Preventionist, was being asked to engage with construction personnel discussing ceilings, walls, renovations, and demolition. This unexpected scenario left Cristine questioning the nature of her job and what she had signed up for.
As she navigated through this unfamiliar territory, Cristine quickly realized that a significant portion of her learning curve during the first year would revolve around construction. Initially, she attempted to feign understanding of the construction jargon and processes. However, she soon recognized that her true focus should be on understanding and controlling dust, a critical aspect of Infection Prevention during construction projects.
This early experience was a revelation for Cristine, highlighting the broad and encompassing nature of Infection Prevention. She discovered that the role extended far beyond traditional healthcare settings and into areas like construction, where controlling environmental factors is crucial for maintaining a safe hospital environment. This realization underscored the importance of adaptability and continuous learning in her profession.
Cristine’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the diverse challenges faced by Infection Preventionists. Her ability to quickly adapt and focus on the critical aspects of her role demonstrates the resilience and resourcefulness required in this field. It also emphasizes the importance of understanding the broader context in which Infection Prevention operates, ensuring that safety and health standards are maintained across all hospital activities, including construction.