OCTOBER 20258EUROPEOCTOBER 20258EUROPEIN MY OPINIONBy Cynthia Mercado-Reyes, Manager of Infection Control Preventative Medicine, CarePoint Health SystemSTRENGTHENING INFECTION CONTROL; INSIGHTS AND STRATEGIES Cynthia's Career journey My journey began in 2004 as a nurse, and I expanded my expertise with a Bachelor of Science in Public Health from Southern New Hampshire University in 2022, leading to work in Infectious Disease. I recently completed my Master's in Public Health, focusing on Preventative Medicine and Epidemiology, at Chamberlain University in July 2024. Currently, I am pursuing a Doctor of Public Health degree at Walden University to further enhance my skills in disease prevention. I have been with CarePoint Health System for nearly two years, overseeing the Infection Control Department at Bayonne Medical Center. I collaborate with Trina Boyd-Clyburn, our VP of Patient Care Services, and Patricia Awuah, our Director of Quality Improvement. This role has been crucial for developing my leadership skills and implementing vital infection prevention strategies. I am grateful for the guidance of Dr. Jack Boghossian, our Infectious Disease Specialist and the support of Dr. John Rimmer, our System Chief Medical Officer and Dr. Mohammad Zubair, our Chief Hospital Executive, which has significantly enhanced our infection control practices and overall healthcare management.Predicaments in Infection ControlInfection control in healthcare faces challenges due to rapid changes in practices and technology. Antimicrobial resistance complicates treatment and requires stricter measures. Ensuring staff adherence to protocols is difficult in busy environments, necessitating ongoing training. While technology can enhance control, poor integration may disrupt workflows. Analyzing infection data can overwhelm resources and patient education is complicated by varying understanding levels. New pathogens demand flexible strategies and limited resources challenge high standards. Addressing these issues requires strong leadership, continuous education, effective technology use and teamwork among healthcare professionals.The Key Infection Control Practices at CarePoint Health SystemAt CarePoint Health System, key infection control practices ensure patient and staff safety. Strict hand hygiene protocols, including regular handwashing and sanitizer use, are enforced. Staff wear appropriate PPE, such as masks, gloves and gowns, based on procedure risk. Environmental cleaning and disinfection are prioritized in high-traffic areas and patient rooms. Continuous surveillance of infection Cynthia Mercado-Reyes is a dedicated Healthcare Professional with a passion for both Nursing and Public Health. Her journey began in 2004 when she embarked on a rewarding career in Nursing. Over the years, Cynthia expanded her expertise, earning a Bachelor of Science Degree in Public Health from Southern New Hampshire University in 2022. This educational milestone propelled her into roles as an Infection Preventionist and, subsequently, as a manager overseeing Infection Control at CarePoint Health System in Bayonne. Her commitment to advancing public health led Cynthia to pursue a Master's Degree in Public Health at Chamberlain University, which she completed in July 2024, fueling her ambition to further specialize in Preventative Medicine through a Doctorate in Public Health. Cynthia Mercado-Reyes
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