Protocol for APIC Members Serving on Outside Organizations in the IP Role
APIC’s board has received a request for a tool for infection preventionist (IP) members to determine when APIC should be consulted when the IP is asked to serve on committees, task forces, or advisory boards of other organizations on IPC issues. APIC professional standards expect the IP to be an advocate for the public and its safety as they practice their profession.1 The IP is supposed to collaborate and consult, not only in their individual organization, but also with external stakeholders, such as patient safety and quality initiatives, public health, and accrediting bodies.1
Persons who are practicing at the top of their profession then, are natural candidates for such activities.
When asked to participate is such activities, the IP needs to understand why. If the invitation is extended specifically because the IP is a member of APIC or is being asked to represent APIC, APIC headquarters must be consulted. Members acting on APIC behalf must ensure they are up to date on APIC positions, act for the good of the organization in their decisions, and conform to the mission and vision of APIC.2
Local, State, Federal, and International entities, (e.g.; CDC, OSHA, WHO), professional organizations such as AORN, ASHRE, SGI, and other regulatory and quasi-regulatory committees, and tasks forces do not require APIC review if the IP is acting as an individual and providing their expertise. The IP should disclose these activities as appropriate during such other activities such as presentations, conferences, speaker’s bureaus, etc.
Industry and Strategic Partners: the IP should be very clear what their role is when serving on such panels. When acting as an individual, these activities do not require APIC approval. The IP should always disclose these activities, during any APIC business at any level, as well as any presentations the IP may provide while serving on these panels.
The IP should be cognizant of the perception they may be considered an APIC representative by the audience, such as at international conferences. Again, the intent of the request should be made clear. Unless directed by APIC to represent the organization at the event, such activities should have a disclosure statement slide, indicating the content represents the IP’s view and not that of APIC.
The expectation of confidentiality in educational offering should be established beforehand as findings during an educational offering (eg we always cohort medications from single use medications). May be such that local public health departments may need notified while the hiring entity may expect confidentiality
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1Bubb, Tania N., et al. "APIC professional and practice standards."American Journal of Infection Control(2016).
2 Axelrod, Nancy R., The Governing Board; Key Responsibilities for Association Boards and Board Members(2013)
“If you want something done; ask a busy person”- Benjamin Franklin.
Approved by APIC Board of Directors
September 2016