Event Details

PHO Webinar: Antibiotic Resistant Organisms (AROs): Time for a Rewind

Antibiotic-resistant organisms (AROs) are germs that have developed resistance to several antibiotics making them difficult to treat.

AROs significantly contribute to morbidity and mortality in all healthcare settings. They can prolong hospitalization and lead to higher death rates compared to patients, residents, clients without AROs.

Identifying patients or clients at risk of ARO colonization or infection is crucial for preventing their transmission in healthcare. Public Health Ontario (PHO) offers resources for case identification and management, supporting best practices to prevent ARO spread.

PHO will be delivering a 60-minute session that includes a review of Infection Prevention and Contol (IPAC) practices, an overview of AROs and available resources, followed by a Q&A segment.

Intended audience: IPAC Leads, IPAC Professionals, Public Health Professionals, and administrators working in Long-Term Care Homes (LTCH), Retirement Homes, Hospitals, Public Health Units (PHU), Primary Care, IPAC Hubs

By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

• Understand the risk factors, screening, and case management for different antibiotic-resistant organisms (AROs)
• Be aware of the various PHO resources available for AROs
• Understand how and when to use these resources effectively
• Apply their knowledge of AROs within their own healthcare setting
• Know where to find out about implementation supports offered by PHO

Presenter(s): Catherine Kerr and Eva Skiba

Catherine Kerr, MSc, CIC, is an IPAC Specialist at PHO since 2022, bringing over a decade of experience in infection prevention and control. She earned her Master of Science degree in Microbiology and Immunology from Western University and has maintained continuous certification in infection prevention and control since 2012. Before joining PHO, Catherine worked as an IPAC professional in both community and large academic hospitals, and she currently serves as a Co-Subject Matter Lead for Antimicrobial Resistant Organisms at PHO.

Eva Skiba, RN, BScN (Hons.), CIC, GNC, has been an Infection Control Consultant at PHO since 2009. She holds a nursing degree, a Gerontology Nursing Certificate, and a Certified Infection Control (CIC) designation. Eva is a member of IPAC Canada and is a former president of the IPAC Canada, Greater Toronto Area (GTA) chapter. She began her career in long-term care in the 1990s, where she gained extensive experience in Infection Prevention and Control as well as in Director of Care roles. Before joining PHO, Eva worked in Infection Prevention and Control at Credit Valley Hospital in 2009. She has also presented at national conferences and various provincial and local events.

Disclaimer

The opinions expressed by speakers and moderators do not necessarily reflect the official policies or views of Public Health Ontario, nor does the mention of trade names, commercial practices, or organizations imply endorsement by Public Health Ontario.

Accessibility

Public Health Ontario is committed to complying with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). If you require accommodations to participate in this event, please contact 647-260-7100 or capacitybuilding@oahpp.ca.