In a recent interview with Jacob Hutcherson from the Voice for Infection Prevention, Cristine Lacerna, DNP, MPH, RN, CIC, CPH shared her experiences transitioning into a managerial role in Infection Prevention. She discussed the significant shift that occurred when, after a year on the job, she became the go-to person for answers and guidance. This was her first experience managing people, and while it felt natural for her, it also added a significant sense of responsibility.
Cristine emphasized how this new role required her to be responsible for her team’s well-being at work, ensuring they were well-developed, properly trained, and aligned with the program’s objectives. The transition brought additional challenges, as managing people and ensuring accurate representation of the program demanded a lot from her. She had to quickly learn the importance of delegation, training, and trust to avoid becoming overwhelmed by the responsibilities of two roles.
The experience underscored the need for Infection Preventionists to develop management skills. Cristine pointed out that those who have never managed before could benefit from formal training in management or, at the very least, seek opportunities to develop these skills. The front-facing nature of Infection Prevention roles makes these skills essential for effective leadership and program success.
Cristine’s journey into management highlights the critical balance between technical expertise and leadership abilities in Infection Prevention. Her story provides valuable insights into the challenges and rewards of taking on managerial responsibilities in a highly demanding field. Her emphasis on continuous learning and adaptation serves as an inspiration for other professionals looking to advance in their careers.