CIC Exam Preparation

Surveillance and Epidemiologic Investigation

• Design of Surveillance Systems
• Conduct a risk assessment based on geographic location, demographics of the population served, care, treatment, services provided, analysis of infection prevention data, evidence-based guidelines, or recommendations
• Develop goals and objectives based upon the risk assessment
• Develop a surveillance plan based on the goals identified
• Adopt or establish standardized surveillance definitions
• Create a process to identify epidemiologically significant findings and notify relevant parties
• Integrate surveillance activities across health care settings
• Establish processes for identifying individuals with communicable diseases requiring transmission-based precautions
• Periodically evaluate the surveillance plan for relevance and modify as needed
• Collection and Compilation of Surveillance Data
• Collect data using standardized definitions
• Utilize a systematic approach for data collection and preparation
• Calculate infection rates/ratios and incidence/prevalence
• Interpretation of Surveillance Data
• Validate and analyze data
• Compare results with published data/benchmarks
• Prepare and present findings
• Outbreak Investigation
• Verify outbreak existence
• Notify stakeholders
• Collaborate on case definitions and control measures
• Monitor and evaluate effectiveness

22

16.3%

Employee/Occupational Health

• Assess and develop screening and immunization programs
• Collaborate on follow-up for communicable diseases/exposures
• Evaluate data on infection prevention
• Identify healthcare personnel risks
• Consult on alternative options (e.g., allergies to products)
• Assess occupational exposure risks
• Educate on safe work practices

11

8%

Education and Research

• Assess educational needs and prepare appropriate content
• Provide immediate feedback on practice lapses
• Facilitate patient and family education
• Conduct literature reviews and critically appraise findings
• Incorporate research findings into practice

12

9%

Cleaning, Disinfection, Sterilization of Medical Devices and Equipment

• Evaluate cleaning and sterilization practices
• Collaborate to determine reprocessing needs
• Audit documentation for compliance with regulatory standards
• Observe critical steps in cleaning, disinfection, and sterilization processes

18

13.3%