Answering the Call- adapting the Infection Prevention Department During the COVID-19 Pandemic

BACKGROUND: During the COVID-19 pandemic, the critical role of the hospital Infection Prevention department was highlighted. To serve as a resource, Infection Preventionists (IP) at a large, quaternary-care center are reachable during normal hours and an IP covers a 24-hour on-call pager on a rotating basis. During the pandemic, the number of IP pages skyrocketed from an average of 6 pages to over 50 pages per day. With this unprecedented strain and limited human resources, innovative changes were made within the department. METHODS: During the acute phase of our COVID-19 response, IPs flexed from a 7 day on call period to a shortened 3–4-day period. To offload the number of IP pages, a hospital epidemiologist pager was created. The department physically relocated to the hospital's centralized incident command center and implemented Microsoft TeamsTM. System-wide IP videoconferences were scheduled. Lastly, structured work-at-home options were created. RESULTS: Shortening the length of time covering the on-call pager reduced the burden and allowed IPs to obtain adequate rest between periods of coverage. The hospital epidemiologist pager served as a resource when physician input was requested, which helped offload the number of calls placed to the IP. Physically relocating and implementing Microsoft TeamsTM promoted teamwork, accessibility, and communication within the department and the hospital. During the 4-week acute phase of our COVID-19 response, 16 videoconferences improved communication and needs of the 3-hospital system. Lastly, many IPs opted for work-from-home options, improving the sense of support and well-being of team members. CONCLUSIONS: We describe strategies that may be implemented by departments to meet organizational needs while promoting the wellbeing of staff. These changes may be used during periods of high-demand or may be permanent based on feedback from key stakeholders.