LDPM 103 - Building a Statewide Network of Peers for Rural Infection Preventionists

Background: The Infection Control Mentorship Program was developed to build a statewide peer-to-peer network of infection preventionists and to facilitate professional development and continuing education. The Infection Control Mentorship Program has hosted three cohorts to date as of July 2023. The program pairs experienced and new infection preventionists from a variety of healthcare facilities with the goal of assisting novice infection preventionists in navigating their role, connecting with learning opportunities, building a peer network, and increasing retention.

Methods: Mentees from each cohort completed a pre- and post-assessment based on the Association of Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology's Competency Self-Assessment Activity for Novice Infection Preventionists. In comparing the pre- and post-assessment results, mentees reported an increase in proficiency across all eight domains that are included in the Roadmap for the Novice Infection Preventionist. Infection control measures during construction and risk assessments were popular educational requests and the program coordinators identified knowledgeable speakers to share best practices related to both topics. In addition to the pre- and post-assessment, mentors and mentees also completed a general program evaluation survey.

Results: In addition to the increased proficiency noted in the pre- and post-assessments, the program evaluation survey results indicate that participants had a positive experience in the mentorship program and that the weekly mentorship sessions and monthly cohort calls helped them achieve their learning goals. Mentees also had an opportunity for an in-person visit with their mentor and many shared that this was a valuable experience.

Conclusions: Based on the success of the program to date, it is clear that the mentorship program has helped address a gap related to professional development and skill-building for infection preventionists. As the mentorship program was developed using APIC tools and resources, this program could serve as a model for other states looking to implement an infection control mentorship program.