In her interview, Kelly Zabriskie shared her approach to overcoming one of the biggest challenges in her career: mastering the clinical aspects of Infection Prevention. Coming from a science background, Kelly was well-prepared for the theoretical elements but faced a steep learning curve when it came to applying this knowledge in a clinical setting, especially in the high-stakes environment of short-term acute care. Her solution? Immersing herself in rigorous study and hands-on training, a path she highly recommends for anyone new to the field.
Kelly’s journey began with formal education. She immediately enrolled in a comprehensive in-person Infection Prevention course, which provided her with a foundational understanding of the clinical aspects of the role. She underscores the value of in-person learning, where face-to-face interaction with other Infection Preventionists (IPs) allowed her to network and gain insights from experienced professionals. For Kelly, this early course set the stage for a lifelong commitment to continuous education, which she considers essential for success in healthcare.
Research and self-study also played a central role in Kelly’s learning process. She dove into medical journals, books, and scientific articles to build a thorough understanding of infection-related topics. Her background in biology and microbiology provided a strong foundation, but she emphasizes the importance of asking questions and researching topics until she felt confident in her knowledge. Kelly’s commitment to accuracy and reliability led her to develop a practice of telling colleagues, “Let me research that, and I’ll get back to you,” which established her as a trusted and dependable resource within her team.
Mentorship was another invaluable component of Kelly’s education. Recognizing that real-world experience and practical advice were critical for mastering the clinical side of Infection Prevention, she sought guidance from a seasoned IP leader. This mentor offered insights that went beyond textbooks, helping Kelly understand how to apply her theoretical knowledge in a clinical setting. Her mentor’s influence reinforced her belief in the value of mentorship, which she encourages for anyone entering a complex field like Infection Prevention.
Kelly’s experience demonstrates that mastering the clinical side of Infection Prevention requires a multifaceted approach: formal education, self-directed study, and mentorship. By immersing herself in each of these areas, she not only gained the skills she needed but also set an example of dedication and adaptability. Her story highlights the importance of persistence and a proactive approach to learning for anyone aspiring to succeed in Infection Prevention. To hear more about Kelly’s journey, check out her full interview on Voice for Infection Prevention.