In a discussion with Jacob Hutcherson, Wendy Kaler shared her thoughts on the value of certification in Infection Control, particularly the Certified in Infection Control (CIC) exam. While the certification has gained popularity, with more people obtaining it straight out of school, Wendy expressed concerns about its ability to truly measure competency in the field. She believes that while the exam has improved over the years, incorporating more questions focused on process and decision-making, it still falls short in gauging the practical skills necessary for an effective Infection Preventionist.
Wendy noted that passing the CIC exam doesn’t always translate to real-world effectiveness. Many individuals may succeed in the test but struggle when it comes to engaging in meaningful conversations or being a change agent within their healthcare organization. She emphasized that the CIC is merely a stepping stone—it requires a lot of study and background knowledge, which is valuable for continuing education, but it doesn’t guarantee the practical application of that knowledge in real-world settings.
For Wendy, the real test of an Infection Preventionist’s competence is their ability to apply concepts in difficult situations. She explains that in the field, IPs must navigate complex conversations, face resistance, and use their words carefully to build trust without burning bridges. Often, you think you have the right answer, but when you get pushback, it’s crucial to know how to regroup, adapt, and come back with a more refined approach. The CIC exam doesn’t prepare professionals for these nuanced interpersonal dynamics, which are critical to the role.
Ultimately, Wendy sees the CIC as a solid foundation for Infection Preventionists—it helps structure their knowledge and forces them to study key concepts. However, she believes that the ability to “read the room” and handle real-life situations is what truly defines an Infection Preventionist’s success. The CIC may be a good starting point, but practical application, adaptability, and communication skills are what matter most when working in the field.