VIPTA is a statewide infection prevention and control education collaborative, led by the Virginia Healthcare-Associated Infections Advisory Group. Through partnership, VIPTA curates IPC resources for Virginia’s healthcare, congregate care, and public health settings.
One for All! Mastering Safe Injection Practices with the Injectioneers
Say ‘bonjour’ to better vial safety! A VIPTA partner, the Virginia Infection Prevention Training Center (VIPTC), brings you the Injectioneers— a fun and animated team delivering practical tips through an engaging story to keep your injection practices sharp.
Single and Multidose Vials with the Injectioneers
What to Expect
- Follow the “Injectioneers” as they demonstrate the essential steps for safely handling single-use and multi-dose vials.
- Learn the “only one” rule and gain practical tips on preparation, handling, and disposal.
Ways to Share this Resource
- Use in team huddles, training sessions, or email updates.
- Perfect for introducing or reinforcing foundational infection prevention concepts.
Target Audience: Foundational IPC Education Level
VDH Southwest Regional Team Infection Prevention Mentorship Program
This month, Paige Bordwine, Southwest Regional Epidemiologist with the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) is highlighting the successes of an infection prevention mentorship program among health department staff in her region.
The Southwest Virginia Regional Infection Prevention team consists of three infection preventionists (IPs), supported by regional containment team members who assist with COVID-19 investigation and prevention. To strengthen IPC expertise and expand regional support, the IPs began mentoring containment team members. Through shadowing during on-site IPC assessments, mentees gained hands-on experience in conducting observations, providing education, and offering resources to address facility needs.
After facilities receive their recommendations report, an IP mentee follows up to address questions and needs, as well as provide education, observations, and interventions based on the IPC assessment. Notably, many skilled nursing and congregate care facilities lacked trained N95 fit testers. In response, the regional team assigned a specialist to conduct train-the-trainer sessions and assist with initial fit testing.
The Southwest Region has received excellent feedback on the value of the IP mentee program. Facilities benefit from mentee support, while mentees gain infection prevention experience, often using the program as a pathway to becoming infection preventionists and pursuing certification in infection control. Mentees describe the experience as rewarding, impactful, and an invaluable learning opportunity.
