Building a Career In Infection Prevention: Jomcy’s Story

By Jomcy Thomas (1)

Edited by: Michael Diamond (53)

November 13, 2015

9801

Abstract:

The author of the following article discusses her path to building a career in Infection Prevention and Control. Through volunteer opportunities, job shadowing and community involvement with a not-for-profit organization, she is applying her education in microbiology to practical applications in healthcare. Are you involved in Infection Prevention in a volunteer or professional capacity? Tell us your story.

Main Article:

When I came to Canada from India in 2010 as a medical microbiology graduate, I knew I wanted to pursue a career in a field which complemented my education, experience, skills and interest.

On my very first day of a job shadowing opportunity at a local hospital, I was introduced to the field of Infection Prevention and Control. I immediately felt a rush of excitement and knew that Infection Control would be my career path.

I was introduced to IPAC (Infection Prevention and Control) Canada and attended my first chapter meeting in September 2013. IPAC Canada is a not-for-profit, member-based organization that advocates for best practices in infection prevention and control in healthcare and other settings. Through the contacts I made at IPAC, I was offered an opportunity to volunteer as a hand hygiene auditor with Hamilton Health Sciences. I accepted the offer and continue to volunteer in that role once a week.

As a Hand Hygiene Auditor, I monitor hand hygiene practises, give on-the-spot feedback to healthcare workers and educate visitors on hand hygiene practises and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE’s) . I shadow Infection Control Practitioners whenever they are free to accommodate, but always respecting the privacy policy of the hospital.

As a member of IPAC, I attend all regional chapter meetings, get updates on best practises and innovation in infection prevention and control procedures and am able to broaden my professional network. I also had the opportunity to become a member of the Education Planning Core Committee for our chapter’s annual Education Day in both 2014 and 2015. Earlier this year, I was fortunate to be awarded an education bursary through IPAC Canada for successfully completing the Infection Control course offered by Queens University.

I believe that I have built a strong foundation in Infection prevention and control and that both my involvement in IPAC Canada and my volunteer work have prepared me well to pursue a position as an Infection Control Practitioner. I anticipate reaching my goal in the very near future.