Mrs Michelle Dyball
1NBMLHD, Nepean Hospital, Kingswood, Australia
Biography:
Michelle Dyball Clinical Nurse Consultant in Infection Prevention and Control at NBMLHD with over 6 years in the specialty. Holding a Master’s in Clinical Teaching and Education, Michelle focuses on empowering clinicians, translating knowledge into practice, and leading multidisciplinary initiatives that strengthen engagement, quality improvement, and sustainable infection prevention practices.
Abstract:
Infection Control Link Nurses (ICLN) were introduced in United Kingdom hospitals in 1981 to act as a liaison between clinical areas and infection prevention teams, promoting infection control awareness. Since then, ICLN programs have been implemented globally, with varied frameworks and delivery models.
Evaluation of the existing program across Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District (NBMLHD) identified key challenges, including low staff engagement due to rotating rosters, shift work, geographic dispersion, and limited executive endorsement. The program relied on 30-minute face-to-face education sessions, with minimal capacity to measure translation of knowledge into practice. Participation was largely restricted to acute inpatient nurses at a single site, with limited recognition for those undertaking additional IPC responsibilities.
In 2025, the program was restructured to improve accessibility, engagement, and impact. A formal framework was developed and endorsed by the district senior leadership team. Virtual attendance via Microsoft Teams was prioritised, supported by recorded sessions and an online collaboration platform. Participation expanded to over 50 multidisciplinary staff across nursing, midwifery, and allied health. The program incorporated Australian Commission online learning modules and encouraged involvement in Quality Assurance and Risk Safety audits, alongside quality improvement and promotional activities.
Attendance increased by 35.7%, with greater engagement in online discussions and resource sharing. Participants reported improved IPC knowledge, networking, and confidence, with several locally led quality improvement initiatives implemented.
A flexible, multidisciplinary link program supports translation of knowledge into practice. Ongoing priorities include strengthening executive support and enabling protected learning time.