Erica M. Smith, MBA, DrPH Candidate: PDI: Employment (full or part time) (Ongoing)
Overview/Abstract: National infection prevention guidelines provide the foundation for safe, evidence-based healthcare practices. However, translating these recommendations into operational policies that work in the real world—and stand up during a survey—requires careful planning. This session will explore strategies for integrating national guidelines such as those from CDC, APIC, and AORN into organizational policies in a way that balances regulatory compliance with clinical practicality. Participants will learn how to avoid overly rigid wording that can inadvertently create compliance risks while ensuring that policies reflect current science and best practice. The discussion will include methods for evaluating and updating policies when guidelines change, ensuring continuous alignment with evolving standards and survey readiness.
