Health Protection Nurse Specialist

Job/Role Summary

To provide specialist infection control, nursing advice, education, and consultation to Primary Care medical and dental services, private Nursing Homes, and residential homes in the SHSSB area.To investigate, and report on communicable disease infection in residential and nursing homes.

Specific qualifications and experience required

A recordable qualification in Infection Control (I obtained this ENB329 in 2000); A minimum of relevant 2 years experience in Infection Control at Grade G or above.

Career Milestones

United Hospitals Trust (1981-1999) where I held the post of Senior Staff Nurse Grade E, and where I received experience in adult nursing in cases with infectious diseases. I progressed to specialize in Infection Control and held a Grade G post from 1999-2005 with Down Lisburn Trust. I am an active member of the Northern Ireland Infection Control Nurse Forum where I obtain specialist education and it is also an opportunity for dialogue and networking. I am also employed with Grafton Healthcare Agency in order to maintain my skills at clinical level, whilst also meeting PREPP regulations. My current post will allow me to build on this experience with the aim of delivering this new service into Primary/Dental care within the Southern Board area. I have led many projects within my area in Infection Control where I undertook a leadership role within the team on the day-to-day running of the Infection Control Service and also in leading the service strategically in the absence of the I Grade Senior Infection Control Nurse.

What attracted you to this job?

Long-term interest in this specialist field; Promotion; Knowledge built on experience and theory of the specialty; Personal development; Management experience

Enjoyable aspects of the job/role

Team building and communication; Advising staff on control methods e.g. during outbreaks; Planning and delivering training session.

Important success factors

Further education e.g. self-funding of Diploma and Degree in Nursing. Previous manager who developed my practical experience through role modelling. Personal interest.

Advice for those considering the type of job/role?

You must have an interest in the specialty of infection control. It would be helpful for you to have good communication skills or to seek development in this area before applying for the job. You need to have good training skills to help others develop as well. You must have developed good leadership skills and enjoy working within a team developing interpersonal relationships with all grades of staff and members of the public.

Key skills that can be gained within this job/role?

Selection and recruitment skills; Management skills; Leadership skills particularly in terms of the team I work with; I am getting the opportunity to become more vocal at meetings; Networking skills and communication skills working at a higher level within DHSSPS. This is a new and challenging post and I believe I can bring many innovative ways of learning, advising, training and communication in the principles of infection control.

Career Profiles