
Hosted by Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC) · EN

Why do infection preventionists stay or walk away? In this episode, hosts Nicki and Jess sit down with guests Dr. Sara Reese and Albert Shackelford to unpack new data on retention and attrition in the field of Infection Prevention (IP). From burnout and workload pressures to flexible schedules and opportunities for growth, they explore the factors shaping career decisions for infection preventionists today. Plus, get a sneak peek at even more analyzed data coming soon. Tune in for an eye-opening conversation filled with data, lived experiences, and practical strategies that every healthcare leader can use to support and sustain the IP workforce. With special guests: Sara Reese, PhD, MPH, CIC, FAPIC, Director of Research for the Center of Research, Practice, and Innovation, APIC and Albert Shackelford, MPH, Public Health Professional and Active-Duty Sailor

What happens when infection prevention meets Southern charm? In this episode of AIC Science Into Practice, experts from UAB spotlight Alabama's Regional Center for Infection Prevention and Control. Discover how they tackled misinformation, trained 70,000+ participants statewide, and built a powerful network of infection preventionists, all while having a little fun along the way. With special guests: Matthew Fifolt, PhD, Associate Professor in the Department of Health Policy and Organization, The University of Alabama at Birmingham's School of Public Health and Lisa McCormick, DrPH, MPH, Senior Associate Dean for Academics and Practice, The University of Alabama at Birmingham's School of Public Health

What really happens when you flush the toilet? In this episode, environmental microbiologist Dr. Charles Gerba reveals the science behind aerosolized germs, viral cross-contamination, and the surprising role toilet flushing plays in spreading pathogens like norovirus. Discover how air sanitizer sprays can reduce airborne and surface contamination and what that means for infection prevention. If you've ever used a public restroom, this is one episode you don't want to miss. With special guest: Charles Gerba, PhD, University of Arizona

Confused by endoscope reprocessing gaps? Join hosts Nikki, Jess, and guest Frankie Catalfumo as they dig into brush types, drying myths, storage debates, and why IFUs can't be trusted blindly. Packed with humor, hard truths, and baking analogies, this episode arms you with practical advice and a few laughs to stop biofilm from crashing your sterile party. Tune in! With special guest: Frankie Catalfumo, MPH, CIC, CRST, Director of Practice Guidance and Health Equity, APIC

Are you curious how infection preventionists are shaping the future of their field? Tune into this episode on the APIC 2025 MegaSurvey. Learn about the MegaSurvey, why it matters, and how it's evolved. Explore how the findings may influence staffing models, compensation trends, emerging technologies, and more. Most importantly, discover how your voice can shape the tools, standards, and career pathways supporting your work. Join the conversation and claim your seat at the table! With special guests: Rebecca (Becca) Crapanzano-Sigafoos, DrPH, MPH, CIC, FAPIC, APIC, Executive Director of the Center for Research, Practice, and Innovation and Sara Reese, PhD, MPH, CIC, FAPIC, APIC, Director of Research

How can nursing homes stop the spread of deadly infections without isolating residents? In this episode, the hosts, Jess and Nicki, dive into Enhanced Barrier Precautions (EBP) with experts Dr. Mary-Claire Roghmann and Stephanie Mayoryk. They explore real-world strategies for implementing EBP, overcoming staff challenges, and balancing infection control with resident quality of life. Don’t miss this insightful discussion on protecting both patients and healthcare workers! With special guests: Stephaie Mayoryk, BSN, President and Infection Prevention Consultant, Mayoryk Consulting Services LLC and Mary-Claire Roghmann, MD, MS, Professor, Infectious Disease Physician, and Hospital Epidemiologist, University of Maryland School of Medicine

How can hospitals stop the spread of Candida auris before it starts? In this episode, infection prevention experts from Mount Sinai share how an expanded screening protocol helped detect cases early and prevent outbreaks. Learn about the challenges of screening, patient isolation, and facility-wide collaboration. With real-world insights and a touch of humor, this episode is a must-listen for anyone battling superbugs in healthcare! With special guests: Aaron Cheng, MPH, CIC, Infection Surveillance Officer, Mount Sinai Brooklyn Karen Brody, MSN, RN, GERO-BC, CIC, Associate Director of Infection Prevention, Mount Sinai Manhattan Waleed Javaid, MD, MBA, MS, Hospital Epidemiologist and Director of Infection Prevention and Control, Mount Sinai

How can we revolutionize infection prevention training in healthcare? Dive into this insightful episode as Dr. Terri Rebmann and Dr. Ashley Hughes explore game-changing techniques like simulation-based learning, just-in-time training, and empowering mentorship. Discover free, expert-developed tools from CDC’s Project Firstline and learn practical tips to improve patient safety and frontline worker readiness. Tune in for laughs, learning, and lifesaving insights! With special guests: Terri Rebmann, PhD, RN, CIC, FAPIC, Divisional Dean, Director of the George Mason University School of Nursing and Ashley Hughes, Ph.D., M.S.,Associate Professor and Research Informaticist at Case Western Reserve University’s School of Medicine at MetroHealth

Can a staffing calculator really revolutionize Infection Prevention and Control? Join us for podcast number 42, where we dive into the world of infection prevention staffing and debunk myths with our expert guests, Dr. Becca Bartles and Dr. Sara Reese. Discover how this innovative calculator changes staffing dynamics and significantly reduces infection rates in hospitals. Listen in and find out how this invention challenges the old staffing ratio and successfully incorporates varying hospital aspects within infection prevention. Are you ready to upgrade your staffing model with us? With special guests: Rebecca (Becca) Bartles, DrPH, MPH, CIC, FAPIC, Executive Director, APIC Center for Research, Practice, and Innovation and Sara Reese, PhD, MPH, CIC, FAPIC, Director of Research, APIC Center for Research, Practice, and Innovation

In this episode, the guests delve into the outstanding work of the Washington State Department of Health in infection prevention, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Featuring healthcare experts like Melissa Feskin, Sarah Podczervinski, and Lisa Hannah, the discussion revolves around connecting healthcare systems to necessary resources, implementing robust education strategies, and sharing best practices amidst the chaos of the pandemic. The focus on proactive measures rather than reactive responses validates their efforts in handling emergencies and preventing more significant complications. With special guests: Melissa Feskin, MPH, Infection Prevention and Control Epidemiologist, Washington State Health Department of Health's Healthcare-Associated Infections and Antimicrobial Resistance Section Lisa Hannah, RN, BS, CIC, CDIPC, Infection Prevention Team Supervisor, Washington State Health Department of Health's Healthcare-Associated Infections and Antimicrobial Resistance Section Sara Podczervinski, RN, MPH, DNP, CIC, Healthcare-Associated Infections and Antimicrobial Resistance Section Manager, Washington State Department of Health