Clinical Programme Coordinator: Infection Prevention and Control (PN-A5) Free State

BRIEF DESCRIPTION:-

The Clinical Programme Coordinator: Infection Prevention and Control (PN-A5) is responsible for overseeing the execution and review of the facility's Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) operational plan, conducting IPC audits, and ensuring compliance with IPC policies and protocols. The role requires a Registered Nurse with a minimum of 7 years of relevant nursing experience and expertise in nursing care standards, infection control, and data analysis.

Job Title: Clinical Programme Coordinator: Infection Prevention and Control (PN-A5) Company: Free State Department of Health

Requirements

A diploma or degree in nursing (R425) plus Matric, or a 4-year Bachelor Degree in Nursing (R174), or an equivalent qualification that permits registration with the South African Nursing Council (SANC) as a Registered Nurse. Must be registered with SANC as a Registered Nurse. Holding an appropriate certificate in Infection Prevention and Control is advantageous. A minimum of 7 years of relevant nursing experience post-registration as a Professional Nurse in General Nursing is required.

Knowledge and Skills

Expertise in nursing care standards, processes, procedures, and nursing statutes, including the Nursing Health Act, Occupational Health and Safety Act, Patient Rights Charter, Nursing Strategy, Public Service Regulations 2016 (as amended), Disciplinary Code and Procedure, Batho-Pele principles, and Grievance Procedure. Proficiency in computer literacy, interpersonal relations, and communication.

Duties

Oversee the execution and review of the facility's Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) operational plan and annual work programme. Organize and conduct IPC Committee meetings and carry out regular IPC audits. Ensure the implementation of IPC policies, protocols, and standard operating procedures (SOPs). Facilitate and coordinate training sessions for personnel, including relevant stakeholders, according to the training plan. Participate in the analysis of data related to programme indicators and assist in formulating action plans to address identified needs. Monitor compliance with national and provincial IPC standards. Engage actively in patient care during support visits. Detect, investigate, and manage outbreaks promptly. Conduct outbreak investigations and compile reports with recommendations. Coordinate surveillance of Healthcare-Associated Infections (HAIs). Conduct nursing staff meetings to disseminate information about new Infection Prevention and Control policies, circulars, etc. Promote hand hygiene, PPE use, and standard precautions among healthcare workers. Review the effectiveness of the scientific approach to nursing and principles for IPC. Foster good working relationships within the department and with stakeholders. Participate in health team decision-making regarding healthcare delivery. Collaborate and consult with multi-disciplinary health teams, organizations, and special interest groups. Represent the institution at various forums. Liaise and coordinate with governmental, non-governmental institutions, and other organizations. Regularly attend meetings and communicate with various stakeholders. Develop relationships across diverse groups of stakeholders. Participate in the development of the business plan and identify ways to contain healthcare costs without compromising standards. Analyse infection surveillance data and identify trends. Prepare and submit monthly, quarterly, and annual IPC reports. Monitor notifiable medical conditions and outbreak reports. Monitor IPC registers and surveillance databases. Ensure spending is maximized in line with strategic objectives. Monitor occupational exposures, needle-stick injuries, and infection risks among staff. Promote staff immunization programs and post-exposure management. Assess isolation facilities and ventilation requirements. Participate in Ideal Hospital and quality assurance programs.