Recertification Options for a-IPC, APIC's Emerging Infectious Diseases Task Force and Mpox Playbook

APIC: Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology

(Logo credit to APIC)

CBIC Announces New Recertification Option for a-IPC Certification

The Certification Board of Infection Control and Epidemiology (CBIC) has announced a significant update regarding the Associate–Infection Prevention and Control (a-IPC) certification. The a-IPC, an entry-level certification designed for novice infection preventionists (IPs), is now renewable through a proctored exam or by earning Infection Prevention Units (IPUs). This update provides greater flexibility for professionals seeking recertification.

Previously, the a-IPC certification, valid for 5 years, could only be renewed through examination. Now, certificants can accumulate a minimum of 40 IPUs during their 5-year certification period to qualify for recertification. IPUs can be earned through various continuing education activities, such as conferences, academic courses, research, and more. The process is tracked electronically via CBIC’s online portfolio system, making it easy for certificants to document their progress.

For those due to recertify between 2025 and 2029, a prorated IPU requirement applies, ranging from 5 to 35 IPUs, depending on the expiration year. Certificants beyond 2029 will be required to meet the full 40 IPUs and demonstrate that their IPUs span at least 6 of the 8 infection prevention domains, including surveillance, education, and sterilization.

CBIC encourages all certificants to review the IPU Manual for detailed guidelines and requirements. For further assistance, individuals can contact CBIC at info@cbic.org.

This update enhances the recertification process, allowing a-IPC™ holders to stay current in infection prevention practices while accommodating their educational and professional needs.

More information can be found here.

The APIC Emerging Infectious Diseases Task Force

The APIC Emerging Infectious Diseases Task Force has created a checklist to support infection preventionists (IPs) in managing PPE during emergencies.

PPE is essential for protecting health care personnel (HCP) from occupational hazards and ensuring patient safety, particularly during disasters or public health emergencies. Effective management of PPE requires thorough pre-event planning, continuous monitoring, and established protocols to prevent equipment degradation. Health care facilities may need to maintain stockpiles, evaluate supply integrity, and ensure that PPE is properly trained in donning, doffing, and disposing of PPE. In the case of disasters involving infectious diseases, such as pandemics or bioterrorism, large quantities of PPE may be necessary, and consistent auditing is required to ensure correct usage.

During prolonged events, PPE shortages may occur, making it crucial for facilities to develop crisis standards of care for rationing supplies. These standards should be part of the overall emergency management plan but can also be created during an active disaster response if required.

The APIC’s comprehensive checklist is available to guide IPs in preparing for PPE-related challenges. This tool fosters stakeholder collaboration, identifies gaps in current PPE management, and serves as a foundation for improving processes. Designed for disaster scenarios, the checklist should be reviewed annually to remain current and thorough. Facilities may also adapt the checklist based on specific needs or the nature of the disaster.

You can read the checklist here: https://bit.ly/3WjenSg.

APIC’s Mpox Playbook

In 2022, the mpox virus began spreading across countries, including the United States, where it is not typically reported. As more information emerges about the virus's spread, the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC) provides resources to support infection preventionists (IPs).

To assist with prevention efforts, APIC's Emerging Infectious Diseases Task Force has developed the Mpox Playbook, updated on August 16, 2024. This playbook is a streamlined, user-friendly workflow designed for IPs to quickly activate mpox prevention measures in health care facilities.

It can be downloaded and customized for specific facility needs, offering a practical tool for infection preventionists to manage mpox prevention efforts efficiently. Infection preventionists are encouraged to check for regular updates as new information becomes available. Access the Mpox Playbook via the APIC website.

You can reach the Mpox Playbook here.