The Infection Preventionist’s Playbook for Survey Readiness
Transmission Control
We’re closing out Season 2 of the Transmission Control podcast with Joi A. McMillon, whose bold, visual posts on survey readiness have taken IP social media by storm. In this episode, Joi breaks down her “everyday readiness” playbook—showing how IPs can move from reactive prep to proactive excellence long before surveyors arrive. She shares how just-in-time training, focused micro-audits, and night/weekend coverage can become lasting habits that drive safer outcomes year-round. You’ll hear real tactics for engaging reluctant staff (including turning low performers into “secret...
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Requirements vs. Recommendations: How Do You Know the Difference?
Transmission Control
What’s the real difference between a requirement and a recommendation—and why does it matter so much during a survey? In this episode of Transmission Control, hosts Garrett Hollembeak and Jill Holdsworth sit down with Sylvia Garcia-Houchins, former Director of Infection Prevention and Control at The Joint Commission, to decode one of the most misunderstood parts of accreditation. Sylvia breaks down how to tell a law from a guideline, what happens when IFUs cite AAMI standards, and the risk of writing “should” or “shall” into your policies without realizing what it means. She shares...
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Survey Central: Meeting Accreditation Standards in the OR & SPD
Transmission Control
The OR can feel intimidating for IPs, but it doesn’t have to. In this episode, hosts Garrett Hollembeak and Jill Holdsworth sit down with Maureen Spencer and Peter Graves to demystify survey readiness where it matters most: behind the red line. They unpack the most common citation magnets like surgical attire, hand hygiene, medication safety, and point-of-use treatment to show how you can replace “we’ve always done it this way” with data, relationships, and practical fixes. You’ll learn how to build comfort in the OR, recruit champions, use tracer methodology, and turn small,...
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Special Release - The AL-CIP Journey: Redefining Leadership in Infection Prevention
Transmission Control
In this special release episode of Transmission Control, we’re breaking down the new Advanced Leadership Certification in Infection Prevention (AL-CIP™) from CBIC and why it matters for Infection Prevention leaders! Joining us for this conversation are Jessica Dangles, Gail Fraine, Erin (Beck) Wilder, Lisa Hannah, and Kornelija Delibasic, who share what motivated them to pursue this milestone, the challenges they faced, and how the credential has already shaped their careers. Whether you’re preparing to apply this year or simply mapping out your future career goals, this...
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Redefining a Perfect Survey: Great Outcomes from Bad Surveys
Transmission Control
What if the real measure of a “perfect survey” wasn’t zero citations, but lasting improvements to patient safety? On this episode of Transmission Control, we welcome Ericka Kalp—an infection preventionist and epidemiologist with more than 20 years of experience—to explore how even the most challenging survey moments can drive meaningful change. From hallway shortcuts that raise red flags to the culture shifts that transform compliance into continuous improvement, Ericka shares practical strategies for reframing survey outcomes. Whether your team is recent survey wins or recovering...
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The Curveball Questions: Preparing for Surveyor Interviews
Transmission Control
Preparing for a regulatory survey isn’t just about binders and policies—it’s about building staff confidence. On this episode of Transmission Control, we welcome Stephen Rusbarsky, who breaks down what really happens when surveyors throw frontline staff those curveball questions— and how the pressure can rattle even experienced teams. From practical strategies to answer with confidence to training tips that replace panic with poise, Stephen shares how IPs can turn high-stakes interviews into opportunities to showcase readiness. If survey interviews have your staff on edge, this...
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Survey Survival 101: The Basics of Accreditation Readiness
Transmission Control
Does your team face accreditation surveys with confidence—or with dread? On this week’s episode of ‘Citation Nation,’ we welcome Katie Belski, an Infection Preventionist with a unique blend of experience in Sterile Processing, patient safety coordination, and IP, who shares hard-won lessons from both sides of the survey table. From the do’s and don’ts of answering surveyors’ questions (hint: less is more) to the everyday red flags that trip up even seasoned teams, Katie breaks down practical strategies for staying survey ready year-round. She also explains why competencies,...
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The Tracer Chase: Mastering Mock Surveys & Tracer Methodology
Transmission Control
How can infection preventionists turn tracer activities from a box-checking exercise into a tool for real culture change? On this Season 2 premiere of Transmission Control, we welcome Euriel Brown, Accreditation Manager at Emory University Hospital Midtown, to explore how tracers can strengthen survey readiness and empower frontline teams. From spotting expired supplies to training staff on the “why” behind compliance, Euriel shares practical strategies to make tracers effective, sustainable, and engaging. Along the way, she reveals how to avoid the dreaded “clipboard warrior” vibe and...
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StreetClothes: The Surfer
Transmission Control
On this episode of StreetClothes, we speak with a clinician with a passion for chasing waves and finding rhythm in the ocean’s tide. From early-morning paddles to the rush of a perfect swell, this surfer blends patience, balance, and energy into every ride. Tune in to hear how Eric Price paddles past the daily grind and chases the thrill of the waves… If you like this series OR have an interesting side-hustle, passion project, or hobby you do outside of your hospital day job that keeps you inspired, refreshed, and motivated, we'd love to hear from you! Message Hank Balch on LinkedIn for a...
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StreetClothes: The Hairdresser
Transmission Control
On this episode of StreetClothes, we speak with a healthcare professional whose passion for style and connection comes to life behind the salon chair. From precision cuts to perfect color blends, this licensed cosmetologist blends artistry and care into every look she creates. Tune in to hear how Dr. Raynetta Stansil brings her signature style to helping people look and feel their best—one trim, one tone, and one transformation at a time… If you like this series OR have an interesting side-hustle, passion project, or hobby you do outside of your hospital day job that keeps you inspired,...
info_outlineOn this episode of StreetClothes, we speak with a healthcare professional whose passion for style and connection comes to life behind the salon chair. From precision cuts to perfect color blends, this licensed cosmetologist blends artistry and care into every look she creates.
Tune in to hear how Dr. Raynetta Stansil brings her signature style to helping people look and feel their best—one trim, one tone, and one transformation at a time…
If you like this series OR have an interesting side-hustle, passion project, or hobby you do outside of your hospital day job that keeps you inspired, refreshed, and motivated, we'd love to hear from you! Message Hank Balch on LinkedIn for a chance to come on the show and share it with the world!
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