In a candid discussion, Sarah Wilkerson reflects on the monumental challenges of stepping into an Infection Prevention management role just a month before the COVID-19 pandemic struck. At Providence Health, Sarah’s transition to management was almost immediately upended when the facility admitted the first U.S. COVID-19 patient. The news reached her in a late-night call she will never forget, marking a swift and intense shift in her responsibilities. Suddenly, her new role required rapid decision-making and strategic planning to manage a crisis that would impact every corner of healthcare.
Sarah explains that her priorities as a manager quickly transformed, focusing entirely on understanding the new virus and its transmission. She and her team had to halt regular infection control protocols and shift gears toward COVID-specific strategies, constantly analyzing and implementing updated guidelines. Her goal was clear: to keep both staff and patients safe amidst the rising uncertainty. This immediate shift required her to apply both critical thinking and flexibility, adapting her skills as she learned about the virus in real-time.
The experience profoundly impacted Sarah’s perspective on Infection Prevention. The fast pace of information during the early days of COVID forced her to consider the broader implications of infection control and the urgency of sharing accurate information. Protecting healthcare workers became an all-consuming responsibility, especially as they had limited information about the virus. This environment underscored for her the essential role of clear, consistent communication in preventing the spread of infection within facilities.
Managing this sudden crisis while newly adjusting to her managerial responsibilities proved to be a baptism by fire. Sarah notes that while no one could have been fully prepared for COVID-19, the situation intensified her need to prioritize team cohesion and rapid information dissemination. Each day was a test of her ability to lead effectively under pressure, communicate clearly, and ensure her team had the support they needed during a time of immense stress and unpredictability.
Sarah’s story is a compelling example of resilience and adaptability in healthcare management. Her experience underscores how leaders in Infection Prevention must be ready to pivot, make critical decisions quickly, and provide a steady source of support for their teams. To hear more of Sarah’s journey through the challenges of COVID-19, stay tuned for her full interview, coming soon on Voice for Infection Prevention.