Infection Preventionist Training Options (SNF/AL)

Are you looking for options to provide Infection Preventionist (IP) training for your staff? Check out some of the options available. The following organizations offer an Infection Preventionist certificate program tailored for long-term care. Each program is recognized as compliant with CMS regulations requiring IPs to have “completed specialized training in infection prevention and control.” 

The IP certification can be renewed and updated. Most of the certification programs take about 20-30 hour. The CDC program is free. The other programs have various fees attached to them and the duration of the certificate varies slightly. Some state public health agencies offer training as well.

• American Health Care Association (AHCA)
• Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC)
• Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
• National Association of Directors of Nursing Administration of Long-Term Care (NADONA)

Certification in infection prevention is only offered though the Certification Board of Infection Control and Epidemiology (CBIC). Of note, certification is not required by CMS but does demonstrate compliance with the CMS regulations.