Fast And Danko Attend Infection Control Conference
South Dakota Foundation for Medical Care (SDFMC) team members, Cheri Fast, BSN, RN, CIC, LTC-CIP, and Jess Danko, MSHA, RRT, LTC-CIP, were among the infection prevention leaders who attended the recent Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC) conference in Orlando, FL.
Danko was selected to join an APIC focus group. “This opportunity provided insight into infection control practices happening across the country. The time together with the focus group allowed us to brainstorm suggestions and ideas to drive changes and make an impact for APIC membership in the future.”
The recently established APIC Health Equity Fund will provide financial support for infection prevention and control tools and resources in disadvantaged communities across the United States. Initial funding applications opened in August and focus on infection prevention scholarships for critical access hospitals.
“We are encouraging South Dakota facilities to apply for the scholarship and take advantage of every infection prevention resource,” added Danko. “Like APIC, the Project Firstline team is committed to growing expertise and providing education and training to advance infection control measures, impact service, and improve care delivery.”
“We were able to meet, discuss, and exchange ideas with peers and colleagues from around the world during the breakout sessions, the exhibitor events, and even in the halls of the convention center,” declared Fast. “There was ample opportunity to grow our influence and increase our network of infection professionals.”
The general sessions featured exceptional keynote speakers to inspire and energize attendees. Returning to their facility with education, ideas, and solutions to advance their professional development and personal ambitions were key takeaways for all the attendees.
“Networking among individuals with similar desires to expand and enhance their infection control work provided for an atmosphere of excitement and interest,” Danko added. “The featured learning sessions at the convention provided a tremendous opportunity to gain infection control expertise and add new enthusiasm to the overall work in the scope of infection control.”