LDPM 15 - Evaluation of Infection Preventionists Assignments Utilizing Data and Infection Preventionists Feedback to Determine Assignment Workload and Improve Job Satisfaction

Background: Infection Preventionist (IP) assignments are traditionally determined by the number of inpatient beds (National standards indicate 0.66 full-time equivalent (FTE) /100 beds), but IP’s take on additional responsibilities leading to variable surveillance workloads and decreased job satisfaction. We utilized data to determine IP surveillance assignments to equally distribute workloads and enhance job satisfaction.

Methods: Surveillance data compiled by 6 IP’s was obtained from the Electronic Medical Record for 36 units with 1292 beds across a quaternary care hospital during Quarter 1 (Q1), fiscal year 2022. Time, in minutes, was determined for the evaluation of possible and confirmed infection cases and totaled in hours to determine the Total Surveillance Time (TST) for each surveillance unit. Staff interviews were conducted to identify gaps and opportunities.

Results: Our IP to bed ratio was 0.54 FTE/100 beds and once another FTE was added, the ratio increased to 0.62 FTE/100 beds. Breakdown of TST per IP showed a large range between 11-59 hours for Q1 with 4 of 6 IP’s having over 70% of TST. Intensive Care Units (ICUs) and stepdown units accounted for 40% TST, and Medical/Surgical units 60% TST. As a result of adding a FTE and reassignment of surveillance, the TST range narrowed to 28-38 hours and IP’s averaged 29 hours TST. Staff interviews reported ICUs require most of their surveillance time leading to, increased stress, and feeling overwhelmed. After reassigning staff, the majority of IP’s reported increased job satisfaction with their assignments.

Conclusions: Our IP to bed ratio improved with the addition of another FTE. High acuity units required more surveillance time and a high TST can lead to decreased job satisfaction. Using TST data, we were able to distribute the IP workload more evenly. Utilizing data to determine IP Surveillance assignments and equally distribute workloads can enhance job satisfaction.