Infection Preventionist (IP)
Definition: A designated individual responsible for the facility's infection prevention and control program. Must be a member of the facility's staff with specialized training in infection prevention and control.
In Practice
CMS requires every nursing home to have at least a part-time Infection Preventionist with specialized training in infection prevention. The IP leads the infection prevention program, conducts surveillance, manages outbreaks, oversees antibiotic stewardship, and provides staff education. The IP role became increasingly important post-pandemic.