Emotional intelligence: Its place in infection prevention and control

BACKGROUND: The Infection Prevention Societies Competency Framework is a detailed tool that recognises the multi factorial work of Infection Prevention and Control Teams. This work often takes place in complex, chaotic and busy environments where non-compliance with policies, procedures and guidelines is endemic. As reductions in Healthcare Associated Infection became a health service priority the tone of Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) became increasingly uncompromising and punitive. This can create conflict between IPC professionals and clinicians who may take a different view as to the reasons for sub optimum practice. If unresolved, this can create a tension that has a negative impact on working relationships and ultimately patient outcomes. CONCEPTS AND CONTEXT: Emotional Intelligence, that ability to recognise, understand and manage our own emotions and recognise, understand and influence the emotions of others, is not something, hitherto, that has been headlined as an attribute for individuals working in IPC. Individuals with higher level of Emotional Intelligence show a greater capacity for learning, deal with pressure more effectively, communicate in interesting and assertive ways and recognise the strengths and weaknesses of others. Overall, the trend is that they are more productive and satisfied in the workplace. CONCLUSION: Emotional Intelligence should be a much sought after trait in IPC as this will better equip a post holder to deliver challenging IPC programmes. When appointing to an IPC team, the candidates Emotional Intelligence should be considered and then developed through a process of education and reflection.