Elevating Environmental Services (EVS) Training for a Safer Healthcare Environment

Session Description: Environmental Services (EVS) workers are the backbone of infection prevention and control (IPC) in healthcare settings. They play a vital role in maintaining a safe and hygienic environment for patients, staff, and visitors, which is critical in preventing the spread of harmful pathogens. Despite their essential contributions to patient safety, EVS workers do not always have access to effective IPC training tailored to their unique needs and work environments. This session draws on findings from exploratory qualitative research highlighting the educational and training gaps and barriers that exist for EVS workers. Participants will gain valuable insights into the specific IPC training needs identified by EVS workers and the implications for overall healthcare quality and safety. Key findings will be presented, showcasing new training resources developed specifically for EVS workers to enhance their knowledge and skills in IPC practices. Furthermore, the session will outline actionable strategies for healthcare facilities to better support EVS workers in their ongoing education and training, fostering a culture of safety and excellence in infection prevention. By providing tailored training opportunities to EVS workers, we can have an important impact on IPC measures, ultimately leading to better patient outcomes and a safer healthcare environment. This presentation aims to highlight the critical need for enhanced training and support for these unsung heroes of healthcare, ensuring they have the tools and knowledge necessary to excel in their vital roles.

Katherine Johnson

Lead Health Scientist, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Katherine Johnson, MPH, PhD, is a health scientist lead in the Division of Healthcare Quality Promotion at CDC.

Amy Kolwaite

Nurse Epidemiologist, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Amy Kolwaite, PhD, ARNP, MPH, is the Chief of the Health Systems Strengthening, Resilience, and Training Branch in the Division of Healthcare Quality Promotion, CDC. She is also an acute and primary care certified pediatric nurse practitioner. In 2010, she joined the CDC as an EIS officer at the Kentucky Department for Public Health. From 2012 to 2013, she completed the CDC Preventive Medicine Fellowship with the global team at the Division of Viral Hepatitis, providing technical support to countries implementing viral hepatitis surveillance and prevention programs. From 2013 to 2022, she served as a nurse epidemiologist in the International Infection Control Program within the Division of Healthcare Quality Promotion, leading a team to enhance infection control programs in various countries. In her current role, she oversees coordination, partner engagement, and innovation to improve the resilience of the U.S. healthcare system and ensure the safety of patients and healthcare personnel.