A national job profile for infection control nurses in public health: the development and content

Abstract Background The COVID-19 pandemic emphasized the crucial role of infection control nurses (ICNs) in public health. ICNs working in multidisciplinary infection control teams face challenges, such as new infectious disease outbreaks and vaccination hesitancy. Recognizing the complexity in this domain, Dutch ICNs in municipal public health services expressed the need for a national job profile describing their tasks and responsibilities. Methods A mixed methods approach was used to develop a job profile. National and international documents on infection control professionals were studied by desk research. Insights from Dutch infection control professionals and experts were collected through a survey (n = 171), two interactive discussion meetings (18-22 participants) and meetings with an advisory group of stakeholders, including representatives of the Dutch nurses’ association. Descriptive statistics and deductive content analysis were used to analyze the data. Results The diverse methods facilitated the development of a job profile for Dutch ICNs. The profile describes that, within infection control teams, ICNs play a key role in coordinating and monitoring infection control measures. They facilitate collaboration among (at-risk) individuals, the infection control team, and the collaborating partners. Additionally, ICNs identify emerging risks for infection control and coordinate infection prevention activities in collaboration with the infection control team. During large-scale outbreaks, ICNs take a leading role and, where appropriate, delegate tasks such as contact tracing to crisis workers. Conclusions We developed the first job profile that outlines the tasks and responsibilities of ICNs in Dutch public health services. It contributes to strengthening infectious control services to face future challenges. Findings emphasize the ICNs’ pivotal role in coordinating and monitoring infection control efforts, while enhancing collaboration, even during large outbreaks. Key messages • In close collaboration with infection control professionals a robust job profile was developed, describing the tasks and responsibilities of infection control nurses in the Netherlands. • The new job profile contributes to strengthening the position of infection control nurses working in municipal public health services and infection control teams.