Infection Prevention and Control

Biography

Biography: Elias Tannous

Abstract

Trees are composed of roots, a trunk and branches. Similarly, in the infection control practice, the roots of the infection control professionals represent the background of these professionals, their values and the studies related to their profession. The crown of a tree is made up of the leaves and branches at the top of that tree. Likewise in the infection control profession this represent the daily activities of an infection control professional i.e., identification of infectious disease process, conducting epidemiological studies, controlling transmission of infectious agents, etc. The trunk of the tree provides its shape and support and holds up the crown. The trunk transports water and nutrients from the soil and sugar from the leaves. In infection control, the trunk represent the link between the theory and in practice, it represents an important element to minimize the theory, practice gap in infection control and has an integral part in holding the workload of an infection control practitioner. Photosynthesis in infection control practice represents the interaction of these professionals with other healthcare workers, coaching them and adding shared values with them to prevent infections. To conclude, a successful infection control professional consists of a mixture between theoretical and practical skills coupled with a trunk that is solid and conducive. This paper summarizes the essential combination of savoir, savoir etre and savoir faire to successfully assume the role of an infection control professional.