In an illuminating conversation, Kelly Zabriskie shares the surprising beginning of her career in Infection Prevention, describing the eye-opening experience of taking on her first IP role at a rehab facility. Initially unfamiliar with the field, Kelly recalls her shock when a friend encouraged her to apply, touting it as an ideal opportunity. Entering with limited knowledge, she quickly found herself immersed in the role’s demands, realizing that Infection Prevention involved far more responsibility and knowledge than she had anticipated. Her candid recollection underscores how this unexpected start transformed into a rewarding challenge.
Kelly recounts her first week on the job as a whirlwind of learning, filled with moments that underscored just how steep the learning curve was. Her occupational health nurse mentor provided patient guidance, but Kelly vividly remembers the jolt of being handed a phone call about a case of MRSA. Faced with immediate responsibilities, she embraced the intensity of the role, relying on her natural curiosity and determination. This experience taught her that stepping out of one’s comfort zone can be both daunting and invigorating, a lesson she carries with her.
To navigate the complexities of Infection Prevention, Kelly took it upon herself to deepen her understanding through self-directed study. From stocking up on microbiology books to diving into research and documents, she committed to building the foundation necessary to succeed in the role. Her dedication highlights the value of proactivity and self-study for anyone entering a new and challenging field, especially one as specialized as Infection Prevention.
Looking back, Kelly appreciates the invaluable lessons learned from her unexpected introduction to Infection Prevention. She emphasizes that, despite the initial shock, the experience ultimately cemented her passion for the field. Kelly’s story serves as an encouraging reminder that unfamiliar opportunities, while intimidating, can open doors to personal growth and fulfillment when met with a willingness to learn and adapt.
Her journey is a testament to resilience and the rewards of embracing the unknown. For more on her career and insights, tune into Kelly’s full interview coming soon on Voice for Infection Prevention.