Why do infection preventionists stay or walk away? In this episode, hosts Nicki and Jess sit down with guests Dr. Sara Reese and Albert Shackelford to unpack new data on retention and attrition in the field of Infection Prevention (IP). From burnout and workload pressures to flexible schedules and opportunities for growth, they explore the factors shaping career decisions for infection preventionists today. Plus, get a sneak peek at even more analyzed data coming soon. Tune in for an eye-opening conversation filled with data, lived experiences, and practical strategies that every healthcare leader can use to support and sustain the IP workforce.
Guests:
- Sara Reese, PhD, MPH, CIC, FAPIC, Director of Research for the Center of Research, Practice, and Innovation, APIC
- Albert Shackelford, MPH, Recent Public Health Graduate and Active-Duty Sailor
Articles:
- https://www.ajicjournal.org/article/S0196-6553(25)00430-4/fulltext
- https://www.ajicjournal.org/article/S0196-6553(25)00429-8/fulltext
Dr. Sara Reese
Dr. Sara Reese, PhD, MPH, CIC, FAPIC. Sara is the Director of Research for APIC’s Center for Research, Practice, and Innovation. Before that, she led infection prevention at Intermountain Health, managed COVID-19 response at Swedish Medical Center, worked with Denver Health and the Colorado Department of Public Health, and mentored countless MPH students. She’s published widely, presented nationally, and has been a leading voice on recruitment and retention challenges in our field. And when she’s not fighting infections, she’s trying to keep up with her 14 and 10 year old boys on snowboards and mountain bikes!
Albert Shackleford, MPH
Albert is an active-duty sailor and recent MPH graduate from the University of Colorado who is preparing to transition into full-time public health work. His public health passions include community health, systems management research, and mental health and well-being.