Core Competencies and Associated Determinants for Infection Control Nurses by Career Stage Following COVID-19
10.14192/kjicp.2025.30.1.50
- Author:
Sun JUNG
1
;
Jeong Sil CHOI
Author Information
1. Infecton Control Team, Kangnam General Hospital, Yongin, Korea
- Publication Type:Original Article
- From:
Korean Journal of healthcare-associated Infection Control and Prevention
2025;30(1):50-59
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Background:We used a newly updated (2021) tool from the U.S. Certification Board of Infection Control (CBIC) to evaluate core competencies of infection control nurses according to career stage following COVID-19. We also aimed to ascertain the influence of organizational culture and individual characteristics on core competencies.
Methods:An online survey using a tool updated by the U.S. Certification Board of Infection Control (CBIC) in 2021 was administered via the Infection Control Nurse Network (KakaoTalk) from September 9 to September 24, 2024. The survey targeted infection control nurses employed in infection control departments of hospitals with more than 150 beds. Multiple regression analysis was used to examine the data using SPSS Win 23 software.
Results:Determinants found to influence infection control nurses’ core competencies included work-oriented culture (β=.162, P=.015), infection control experience (β=.396, P<.001), and infection control credentials (β=.196, P=.016). Infection control experience was the primary influencing factor, and the newly identified organizational factor was work-oriented culture.
Conclusion:Enhancing infection control training and experience and fostering a work-oriented organizational culture are critical for enhancing the core competencies of infection control nurses. In addition to career management, development of an organization-wide infection control certification support program is crucial. Efforts must also be made to establish suitable nursing strategies to promote a work-oriented organizational culture.
