In a candid conversation, Kelly Zabriskie shared the pivotal decision to return to school for her master’s degree later in her career. While she initially delayed due to family obligations, she ultimately recognized the importance of a graduate degree to advance in Infection Prevention. Unlike a traditional public health or healthcare administration degree, Kelly pursued a master’s in legal studies with a healthcare track, a choice that profoundly shaped her perspective on infection control and risk management. This decision reflects her commitment to continuous learning and her dedication to enhancing her work in a non-traditional yet impactful way.
Kelly’s interest in the legal aspects of healthcare emerged from her dual role as both Infection Prevention Director and risk manager in a previous position. She recalls how these dual responsibilities sparked her curiosity about healthcare regulations, legal documentation, and regulatory compliance. Mentorship played a significant role here, as a colleague guided her through both roles, leading her to see the deep connections between Infection Prevention and legal considerations. This blend of responsibilities was instrumental in her decision to pursue legal studies, an area that would later bolster her expertise.
Her master’s program, she explains, was eye-opening. From understanding regulatory pathways like 510(k) clearances to delving into FDA requirements and Joint Commission standards, Kelly gained a new appreciation for the legal framework surrounding healthcare operations. She emphasizes the importance of documentation, a crucial part of both Infection Prevention and legal compliance, saying, “if you didn’t document it, it didn’t happen.” For Kelly, the degree provided insights that went beyond her Infection Prevention role, highlighting the importance of regulatory processes in maintaining patient safety and compliance.
Kelly passionately believes that healthcare professionals should consider taking at least one legal course. Her experience taught her that a grounding in legal studies provides a better understanding of the systems that bring equipment and protocols to the market, and why stringent infection control practices are so essential. By learning the “why” behind regulatory standards, she strengthened her approach to Infection Prevention, ensuring that her department operates within a framework that values safety and compliance.
Ultimately, Kelly’s journey illustrates the value of taking unconventional paths in one’s career. Her master’s in legal studies didn’t just fulfill a personal goal; it added a layer of expertise that sets her apart in the field of Infection Prevention. For anyone considering a career in healthcare, her advice is clear: if you have the chance, explore legal courses, as they can provide insights that enhance both professional capabilities and patient safety. Kelly’s story is a powerful reminder of the value of continuous learning and cross-disciplinary growth in the healthcare field.