Ivan W. Gowe, MS, MLS(ASCP)CM, CIC, FAPIC, is an infection prevention (IP) contractor in Western North Carolina. He trained in medical technology and transitioned to IP in 2008. Most of his experience is in acute care hospitals and ambulatory clinics. He is certified in infection control and is a fellow of APIC.
A new podcast, The Safety Spectrum, explores workforce challenges in infection prevention, particularly the barriers faced by qualified professionals without nursing credentials, despite CMS and other regulatory bodies recognizing infection prevention as a multidisciplinary field. The article highlights ongoing staffing shortages, evolving workforce demographics, and the need for more inclusive hiring practices to strengthen patient safety and rebuild the infection prevention profession.
How IPC programs are shifting away from punitive audits toward human-centered coaching models. Include peer-to-peer observation, quiet feedback moments, and psychological safety as drivers of long-term adherence.
Legionnaires’ disease remains a deadly but preventable threat in health care, especially in long-term care. Every facility needs a strong, team-driven water management plan because prevention starts at the tap. This article explains what is needed to write one.
