Rebecca Vanderburg
Infe
Englewood,CO
Summary
Knowledgeable Infection Preventionist with proven history of leading high-performing teams and executing strategic initiatives that drive organizational growth. Successfully directed cross-functional projects that resulted in significant process improvements and operational efficiencies. Demonstrated leadership and communication skills in fostering collaborative environments and delivering impactful results.
Encouraging manager and analytical problem-solver with talents for team building, leading and motivating, as well as excellent customer relations aptitude and relationship-building skills. Proficient in using independent decision-making skills and sound judgment to positively impact company success. Dedicated to applying training, monitoring and morale-building abilities to enhance employee engagement and boost performance.
Overview
17
17
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Director of Infection Prevention and Control, VN 0610 Grade III Step 6
ROCKY MOUNTAIN REGIONAL VA MEDICAL CENTER
08.2021 - 06.2022
- Functioned as the Team Lead for Infection Prevention and Control.
- Engaged with all levels of clinicians, non-licensed staff and leadership at the facility, VISN and National levels.
- Communicated knowledge and understanding of mandatory requirements and standards of Joint Commission, OSHA, and California State Public Health as they relate to Infection Prevention.
- Supervised and trained Infection Prevention nurses in surveillance of infections and diseases, contact investigations and containment of infectious disease outbreaks, collection and analysis of infections to reduce risk and improve health outcomes.
- Reviewed best practices in infection prevention and works with all healthcare disciplines to implement these practices.
- Participated in Environment of care and Construction rounds for the facility.
- Provided Infectious Disease consultation to Community Living Center.
- Supervised, trained and provided cross-coverage with other Infection Prevention Nurses.
- Initiated and conducted appropriate epidemiological studies aimed at defining the nature, etiology, and control of Hospital acquired infection (HAI) outbreaks.
- Participated in the development, implementation, and maintenance of infection control activities and functions as a liaison between the Medical Center, various regulatory agencies and the medical community.
- Served as an active member of the Infection Prevention and Control Committee and maintains data and correspondence pertaining to HAIs.
- Coordinated infection control program function with state and local health departments concerning patients with reportable communicable diseases.
- Participated in the evaluation of equipment and supplies related to infection control.
- Functioned as a resource person for Employee Health Service on matters pertaining to infection control and exposures to communicable diseases.
- Worked closely with the Medical Center Safety Officer and Industrial Hygienist on environment of care issues that pertain to the practice of Infection Control and Occupational Health.
- Developed the Infection Prevention & Control Program Plan, Annual Program Evaluation, and Risk Assessment
- Developed and kept updated facility Infection Prevention & Control Guidelines/Policies
- 1700 North Wheeling Street, Aurora, CO 80045
- Full time
Supervisor of Epidemiology and Infection Control
TUCSON MEDICAL CENTER
08.2020 - 07.2021
- Supervised and monitored the Infection Prevention Program in accordance with Infection Prevention regulations and plan.
- Developed policies governing control of infections and communicable diseases.
- Implemented policies governing prevention of infections and communicable diseases.
- Developed a system for identifying, reporting, investigating, and preventing infections and communicable diseases.
- Oversaw the adherence to standards of practice, protocols, and procedures, maintenance of and coordination of services with other units and agencies related to infection prevention.
- Advised leadership by interpreting changes in county, state or federal regulations relating to infection prevention requirements.
- Supervised staff involving interviewing and hiring, training, and performance evaluation; establishes specific performance standards and measures for work; confronts others directly and respectfully when performance does not meet expectations
- Oversaw assigned budgets, including projections and reconciliation; understood implications of Tucson Medical Center business decisions on bottom line and manages activities to produce results to support business decisions.
- 5301 East Grant Road, Tucson, AZ 85712
- Full time
Lead Infection Preventionist, VN 0610 Grade III Step 6
VETERANS AFFAIRS PUGET SOUND HEALTHCARE SYSTEM
02.2017 - 08.2020
- Demonstrated leadership, experience, and creative approaches to the management of complex programs and veteran care as it relates to the practice of surveillance activities, prevention of infections in patients, employees, visitors and volunteers.
- Knowledgeable about outbreak prevention and intervention in the acute hospital, Community Living Centers, outpatient clinics and Community Based Outpatient Clinics.
- Consults with and assists in the design of the Infection Control (IC) Program requirements in all services and departments of the VA Puget Sound Health Care System.
- Accountable to evaluate the quality and effectiveness of the IC Program specific to the practice setting.
- Provided for the systematic collection and analysis of infection data using current epidemiological principles.
- Served as an educational resource for all employees and medical staff on infection prevention and control and epidemiology, providing expert knowledge and guidance.
- Responsible for the development and revisions of policies and procedures, investigation of suspected outbreaks of infections and exposures to infectious agents.
- Responsible for collaboration with and reporting to public health agencies and hospital staff members.
- Incorporated the principles of fiscal responsibility into practice and initiates and participates in studies and research activities related to Infection prevention activities.
- Served on many and varied Medical Center committees in order to communicate, educate, and provide consultation about the role of the Infection Prevention/Infectious Disease.
- Communicated and worked collaboratively with Executive Leadership in VA Puget Sound Healthcare System.
- Worked collaboratively with other clinical/administrative departments/staff including Industrial Hygiene, Patient Safety, Quality Management, Risk Management, Occupational Health physicians and staff, providing reports needed for Infection Risk in patients, and Occupational injury due to blood borne pathogens.
- Responsible for leading the other Infection Preventionist in the department and organizing efforts to ensure the department is effective regarding the prevention and control of infections facility wide.
- 1660 South Columbian Way, Seattle, WA 98108
- Full time
Infection Preventionist, VN 0610 Grade III
VETERANS AFFAIRS SOUTHERN OREGON REHABILITATION CENTER
10.2015 - 02.2017
- Responsible for the effective direction, management and operation of the infection prevention and control department, including education of staff and consultation with the organization, CDC, and the county and state health departments.
- The responsibilities encompass compliance with Joint Commission (JC) standards, OSHA, and state regulations, outbreak investigation, and overall direction of the infection prevention and control program.
- Chaired the Infection Prevention and Control Committee, the Antimicrobial Stewardship Committee, and the Flu Committee
- Voting member of the Medical Executive Committee, the Environment of Care Committee, the Pharmaceutical and Therapy Committee, the Nursing Professional Practice Committee, the Equipment and Commodities Committee, and the Accident Review Board
- Established, implemented and administered departmental goals, objectives, policies and procedures; conducts ongoing review of policies, procedures and guidelines to identify infection control discrepancies and implements revisions as necessary.
- Ensured that departmental goals are compatible with, and enhance the organization's mission, values, and strategic plan.
- Provided information to committees and department managers to formulate changes in the policies, procedures and/or processes which could reduce the spread of infection.
- Devised action plans to correct negative variances.
- Collaborated with physicians, nurses, department managers, supervisors, and occupational health and other professional/non-professional staff members to provide resource information, resolve infection control problems, and identify new opportunities to improve service and reduce costs.
- Developed and enforced effectual policies and procedures for the department and facility that ensures compliance with JC, OSHA, CDC, CMS and other county, state, and federal regulatory agencies.
- Directed and assisted in preparing reports and statistical data for the Infection Prevention and Control Committee, the Medical Executive Committee and the facility's administration and other committees as needed.
- Developed and coordinated the infection prevention and control program throughout the facility.
- Implemented the program by formulating, establishing and evaluating policies and procedures relating to patient care infection control measures throughout the facility.
- Performed an annual assessment and develops action plans from the prior year activities.
- Made recommendations regarding construction, renovation, environmental rounds, and assured compliance with national and/or professional standards.
- Served as a nurse preceptor for Oregon School of Health Sciences nursing students.
- 8495 Crater Lake Hwy., White City, OR 97503
- Full time
Staff Nurse: Neonatal Intensive Care Unit
LAS PALMAS MEDICAL CENTER
09.2013 - 06.2015
- Provided direct pediatric patient care, training, and leadership in Intensive Care Nursery for infants with special needs.
- Consult and coordinate with health care team members to assess, plan, implement, and evaluate condition for premature and acutely ill patients.
- Completed hourly physical assessments and communicate with lab personnel, doctors, and family members to provide life-saving care for neonate patients.
- Proctored nursing students and trained support staff to address specialized neonate medical care needs and compassionate support to patients’ families.
- As Nursery Representative on Staffing and Professional Practices Committees, collaborated with senior hospital staff to identify and address issues relating to unit operations
- Observed patients, charting and reporting changes in patients' conditions, including adverse reactions to medication or treatment. Administer prescribed medications.
- Explained medical procedures and risks to patients’ family members, clearly communicating complex medical information to diverse audiences in clear, concise language.
- 801 N. Oregon St., El Paso, TX 79902
- Full time
Clinical Case Manager
LAS PALMAS MEDICAL CENTER
08.2012 - 09.2013
- Coordinated plan of care, monitored progress through the expected treatment course and intervened as appropriate to facilitate achieving adult and pediatric patient outcomes within anticipated time frames.
- Assessed patients to conduct health psychosocial and health literacy assessment to determine additional needs or impediments to adhering to prescribed medical regimen.
- Interviewed patients/families to gather information on financial disposition, social support system, cultural influences, and mental disposition.
- Gained consent to initiate case management services. Aligned to hospital or community Social Worker as appropriate.
- Educated on disease, disease management, nutrition, medical monitoring and regimen, and adverse indications.
- Provided contact information and maintained upmost approachability to promote adherence to regimen and early identification and response to risk indicators.
- Contact health service providers to request missing documentation and explain requirements relevant to policy terms.
- Developed and coordinated goal-oriented care management plans and conducted ongoing reviews of service delivery by primary care physicians, therapists, and social workers.
- Proactively monitored service delivery and patient adherence to regimens; evaluate effectiveness of treatment.
- Identify and investigate interruptions and deviations to service delivery.
- Conducted cost analysis and feasibility of in-home health services delivery and home self-monitoring versus in-patient care as appropriate.
- Reviewed incoming reports of vitals, daily progress notes, laboratory results, and other health indicators.
- Identified items outside normal parameters and ensure appropriate medical follow-up.
- Managed outsourced transfers to step-down units, long-term acute care and rehabilitation facilities, and discharges to home.
- 801 N. Oregon St., El Paso, TX 79902
- Full time
Staff Nurse: Cardiac Care/Intensive Care Units
MEMORIAL MEDICAL CENTER
08.2011 - 08.2012
- Provided skilled assessments and nursing for patients presenting broad scope of presentations including recovery from cardiac and neurosurgery, joint replacement, amputation, MI, stroke, COPD, pneumonia and other conditions.
- Coordinated and monitored care plans with therapists (OT/PT/ST/RT), wound specialists, social workers, CNAs and LPNAs.
- Reviewed documentation for appropriate service delivery.
- Analyzed notes to assess progress and issues, implemented responsive measures to improve outcomes and prevent readmission.
- Facilitated healthcare team case reviews.
- Reconciled medications.
- Administered medication via oral, topical, subcutaneous and intramuscular muscular injections.
- Drew blood and prepared for lab.
- Interpreted labs and assessment data; evaluated against baseline and goals to form sound nursing diagnosis.
- Inserted and cared for Foley catheters.
- Inspected and documented size and appearance of wounds and incision sites; debrided and provided sterile dressing changes.
- Inspected PICC lines and ports for signs of infection.
- Educated patients on disease, disease management, and importance of compliance to medication and therapy regimens.
- Explained procedures, listened and responded to concerns, and provided words of comfort and encouragement.
- Wrote detailed patient reports.
- Updated medical charts and input data into hospital database system.
- Performed advanced database queries to identify personnel, medical and billing issues, facilitating immediate and effective problem-resolution.
- 2450 S. Telshor Blvd., Las Cruces, NM 88001
- Full time
Registered Nurse: Home Health
ALPHA NURSES HOME HEALTH SERVICES
06.2010 - 08.2011
- Provided home nursing care and case management to diverse patient base with chronic or acute medical conditions.
- Supervised, monitored, and trained Clinical Nursing Assistants.
- Facilitated continuum of care from medical facilities into the home.
- Conducted baseline health status and health literacy assessments for assigned patients.
- Evaluated medical records and developed individual care plans based on complex medical conditions.
- Educated patient on identified health needs and self-management activities, monitoring care plans to ensure optimum health care possible in home-based environment.
- Fostered and maintained compassionate relationships with family members of clients to create a comprehensive support system utilizing all available resources.
- Identified and resolved issues to safety such as securing family members for live-in support, ADA adaptations, and companion services.
- Managed all administrative functions including casework report input, scheduling appointments with external care providers, and completing monthly health care evaluations.
- 800 Camino Blanco, Las Cruces, NM 88007
- Full time
Per Diem Nurse, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (Level IV NICU)
COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER
05.2007 - 08.2009
- Provided medical care in the NICU at a major metropolitan teaching hospital.
- Consulted and coordinated with health care team members to assess, plan, implement and evaluate patient care plans.
- Performed all patient intake duties including physical exams, patient medical histories, and updating medical database and patient charts.
- Administered post-operative pediatric patient care, completing physical assessments, administration of medications/IV therapy, telemetry, and discharge planning.
- Recognized as consistently fulfilling last-minute tasks while maintaining forward momentum on all regularly scheduled assignments
- 359 Broadway, New York, NY 10032
- Part time
Staff Nurse: Newborn Intensive Care Unit (Level IV NICU)
UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA MEDICAL CENTER
05.2005 - 05.2007
- Provide health care, counseling and medical support to diverse pediatric patient population.
- Closely monitored assigned patients and perform medical services.
- Reviewed patient medical histories followed treatment plans for patient care, and assisted doctors during complex medical procedures.
- Monitored pain and response to medication.
- Inserted and administered IVs, Foley catheters, NG tubes, subcutaneous, oral and epidural medication.
- Actively participated in daily hospital briefings and rounds with physicians, administrative staff, and charge nurses.
- Assisted medical specialists in testing, evaluations and diagnosis.
- 2450 Riverside Avenue, Minneapolis, MN 55454
- Full time
Education
Master of Science - Neonatal Nurse Practitioner
COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY
New York City, NY02.2009
Bachelor of Science - Speech Communication
ST. CATHERINE UNIVERSITY
St. Paul, MN07.2021
Bachelor of Science - Nursing
COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY
New York City, NY05.2005
Skills
- Relationship building
- Strategic planning
- Verbal and written communication
- Decision-making
- People management
- Staff development
- Legal and regulatory compliance
- Partnerships and alliances
- Leadership development
- Coaching and mentoring
- Crisis management
- Government relations
Certification
Colorado, RN Multistate RN-1702400, expires 9/30/2027
Awards
Awards: Navy & Marine Corps Achievement Medals, 1997/1999; Humanitarian Service Medal in 1999
Quote
A bird does not sing because it has an answer, it sings because it has a song.
Maya Angelou
MILITARY EXPERIENCE
- UNITED STATES NAVY, multiple duty stations February1993 – January 2000
- Medical Laboratory Technician, E-4, Honorably Discharged
- Performed clinical testing and phlebotomy services to active-duty members and their families.
- Worked in all departments of the Clinical Laboratory including Hematology, Chemistry, Urinalysis, Microbiology, Pathology, and Blood Bank
- Deployed to Izmit, Turkey in August 1999 with Surgical Response Team to assist with Earth quake response
- Deployed to Riga, Latvia in June 1999 with the Surgical Response Team to assist in a joint disaster response drill with Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania
- BLS Instructor: taught Basic Life Support to hospital staff and other Navy personnel
- Served as a Preceptor for students and new staff in Medical Laboratory