Arlington, Va., March 17, 2023 – The Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC) today announced the launch of a new certification preparation program to help infection preventionists (IPs) working in long-term care settings sit for certification in infection prevention (CIP).

The new APIC Learning System for LTC-CIP is based on the exam content outline of the Certification Board for Infection Control and Epidemiology’s (CBIC’s) new Long-term Care Certification in Infection Prevention (LTC-CIP).

Infection prevention training and certification is critically important in long-term care settings where residents tend to be older, sicker, and at higher risk for complications of infections. APIC surveys show that less than 40% of IPs in nursing homes report having specialized training in infection prevention. This lack of investment had unfortunate results during COVID-19: at the peak of the pandemic, 34% of deaths were linked to nursing homes.

“Less than 10 percent of IPs working in nursing homes are certified in infection prevention,” said Devin Jopp, EdD, APIC CEO. “Ensuring that more IPs in long-term care receive infection prevention training and become certified in their field is a key priority for APIC. We are pleased to be able to offer IPs working in LTC settings a pathway to successful certification.” 

Developed with the Holmes Corporation, the APIC Learning System guides users to success through three steps: Assess, Study, and Pass. In the first step, learners take an online pre-test which assesses their current knowledge and sets up their customized learning path. Next, learners explore and study six modules that cover all aspects of LTC infection prevention. In the last step, users prepare to take the exam by completing a post-test designed to emulate the certification exam experience. Throughout the program, learners have access to a variety of online interactive study tools including flashcards and quizzes.

For more information on the new APIC Learning System for LTC-CIP, visit www.learnipc.apic.org

Founded in 1972, the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC) is the leading association for infection preventionists and epidemiologists. With more than 15,000 members, APIC advances the science and practice of infection prevention and control. APIC carries out its mission through research, advocacy, and patient safety; education, credentialing, and certification; and fostering development of the infection prevention and control workforce of the future. Together with our members and partners, we are working toward a safer world through the prevention of infection. Join us and learn more at apic.org.

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