In a recent interview with Jacob Hutcherson from the Voice for Infection Prevention, Cristine Lacerna shared insights into her early experiences in Infection Prevention and how she navigated the steep learning curve. Cristine recounted how fortunate she was to have a preceptor who was her manager, guiding her through the initial stages of her career with a very academic and structured approach.
Cristine’s preceptor provided her with an abundance of resources and references, ensuring she had a comprehensive foundation to build upon. The orientation was traditional, relying on an orientation book and a detailed binder that Cristine had to diligently study over the first three months. This rigorous approach, combined with constant mentorship, was instrumental in shaping her initial understanding and practices in Infection Prevention.
However, Cristine emphasized that beyond the structured learning, her self-driven nature played a crucial role in her development. The high expectations placed on her from day one meant she had to quickly become knowledgeable and confident in her role. She often faced situations where people expected her to have all the answers, despite being new. This pressure, while challenging, fueled her determination to learn extensively and rapidly.
Cristine admitted to feeling imposter syndrome despite her thorough academic preparation. She realized that knowing the standards and guidelines from sources like APIC and the CDC was not enough; practical experience was also essential. To bridge this gap, she immersed herself completely, absorbing as much information as possible during her first year (like drinking from a firehose). This intensive learning phase was crucial in helping her meet the high expectations of her role.
Reflecting on her journey, Cristine stressed the importance of continuous learning and self-motivation for new Infection Preventionists. She encourages others in the field to embrace the ongoing nature of learning and to seek out both academic knowledge and practical experience. Her story is a testament to the dedication required to excel in Infection Prevention and the invaluable support that mentors can provide in this demanding field.