In an enlightening discussion, Sarah Wilkerson reveals the often-surprising departments that have become essential partners in her Infection Prevention work. Among these, engineering and facilities stand out as crucial allies. As Sarah explains, a good relationship with these teams means they keep her informed of potential issues early on, which can prevent late-night emergencies. Having facilities on speed dial allows her to anticipate and address problems before they become critical, highlighting the proactive nature of effective Infection Prevention.
Another crucial collaboration is with housekeeping and sterile processing teams. Sarah emphasizes that Infection Prevention starts with them. Proper disinfection of surfaces and instruments is fundamental to maintaining a safe environment, and when housekeeping and sterile processing teams understand the importance of their role, they’re more invested in carrying out these tasks meticulously. Sarah believes that by recognizing their impact, these teams feel more connected to the larger mission of patient safety.
Nursing teams are also indispensable partners. Since they’re on the frontlines of patient care, it’s essential that nurses understand not only the “how” but the “why” behind infection protocols. Sarah advocates for clear communication that explains the rationale for protocols, making it easier for nurses to follow procedures and participate in Infection Prevention efforts. By involving them in discussions about process improvements, Sarah fosters a collaborative environment where nursing staff feel their input is valued.
Quality assurance teams play a vital role by helping Sarah and her team monitor data trends, which is crucial for making informed decisions. Together, they work to display data meaningfully to highlight infection trends and provide actionable insights to staff. This collaboration ensures that infection data doesn’t just remain in reports but actively guides day-to-day practices in patient care, enhancing the facility’s overall infection control strategy.
Finally, Sarah highlights the role of supply chain and materials management, particularly in response to crises like the COVID-19 pandemic and IV fluid shortages. These teams ensure that the necessary supplies are available, supporting the entire Infection Prevention operation. Without timely access to critical materials, even the best-laid infection control plans would falter, underlining supply chain’s indispensable role in healthcare safety. For more on Sarah’s insights into building strong departmental alliances, her full interview is coming soon on Voice for Infection Prevention.