AHCA/NCAL’s Infection Preventionist Training Works for Assisted Living Settings Too

Dave Kyllo

AHCA/NCAL’s expanded version of its popular Infection Preventionist Specialized Training (IPCO Version 2) is recommended for individuals responsible for infection prevention and control in all long term care settings, including assisted living. While designed to train SNF Infection Preventionists, the training is equally effective for assisted living communities because they care for a similar population and can face similar infection risks. 

IPCO Version 2 is approved for 25 ANCC contact hours.  The online course is also now approved for 22 NAB CEUs for Administrators.  AHCA/NCAL recognizes Administrators and Directors will not serve as designated Infection Preventionists but recommends that Administrators and Directors consider taking the course to gain a deeper understanding of infection prevention and control in the overall operation of a nursing facility as this is a high target area for survey and liability. 

IPCO Version 2 includes:

•  Updated regulatory requirements and added course content, including:
• Multi-drug Resistant Organisms (MDROs) and Enhanced Barrier Precautions (EBP)
• Candida Auris
• Water management
• COVID-19
•  Bonus Content – All persons who register for IPCO Version 2 receive additional non-CE approved content. Topics include Interim COVID-19 Guidance, and courses on PPE and N-95 mask use. 

The registration fee is $450 for AHCA/NCAL members and $650 for non-members.  There are no refunds and no transfers.  Registrants have one year to complete the course. Payment and registration are made online at ahcancalED.  Discounted group purchase rates are available for groups of 25 or more by contacting educate@ahca.org.  

Note that while CDC/CMS does offer a free infection prevention training course, AHCA’s IPCO Version 2 training is far more comprehensive and includes updated information that is taught by experts with real-life practical long term care experience. 

Members will need to login with their AHCA/NCAL usernames and passwords to register for IPCO Version 2.  For assistance obtaining AHCA/NCAL usernames and passwords, members should e-mail educate@ahca.org with their name and facility contact information.