Maimuna Jatta’s journey into Infection Prevention was sparked by curiosity and support from a passionate Infection Preventionist (IP) in her hospital unit. While working as a nurse, Maimuna developed a natural interest in Infection Prevention, often asking questions and seeking advice from the IP assigned to her unit. Fortunately, this IP was not only knowledgeable but also excited to see a nurse show such enthusiasm for Infection Prevention, a role often overlooked by nursing staff.
Maimuna’s eagerness to learn didn’t go unnoticed. As the hospital prepared for Infection Prevention Week, the IP mentioned that they needed help running the educational tables for the event. Without hesitation, Maimuna volunteered, excited by the opportunity to dive deeper into the field. The timing was perfect, as the IP was heavily pregnant and unsure if she would be able to manage her responsibilities during the event. Maimuna quickly took the reins, learning everything necessary to ensure a smooth event in case the IP couldn’t participate.
When the day arrived, the IP was on maternity leave, leaving Maimuna in charge of the educational table. This experience solidified her interest in Infection Prevention, as it allowed her to interact with her colleagues and share knowledge, while also getting a hands-on introduction to the field. Other nurses also pitched in, making the event a collaborative effort, but for Maimuna, it was a defining moment in her career.
This experience not only gave Maimuna the confidence to pursue Infection Prevention further but also revealed the collaborative nature of the field. By stepping up and immersing herself in the hospital’s Infection Prevention activities, she found her passion for combining education, public health, and clinical care—leading her to a fulfilling career in Infection Prevention.