Welcome Juan Guardado – Our Infection Prevention & Control Specialist
Recently, we had the pleasure of welcoming Juan, our newest Infection Prevention and Control Specialist, to the team. Eager to get to know him better, we sat down with Juan to find out more about him, his role, and his experiences since joining us.
Tell us about your background?
I am from Spain, but I have lived in Ireland for the last 6 years. While relocating to a different country always comes with its set of challenges, the warmth and openness of the Irish people made the transition smoother. They welcomed me with open arms, making me feel like a friend rather than a stranger. The support I received reassured me that I made the right choice in moving here.
What has your professional journey been like here?
I began as a qualified nurse, initially working on a dialysis ward at University Hospital Limerick. Subsequently, I moved to the paediatric and then neonatal unit. The Covid-19 pandemic sparked an interest in infection prevention control. This made me pursue a postgraduate degree in the subject to further my expertise.
Tell me more about your role at Bidvest Noonan?
My role covers a wide range of responsibilities spanning healthcare sites across the nation. Despite its vast scope, I’m very passionate about it. Every day, I collaborate with a very dedicated team to make crucial decisions. This includes partnering with healthcare professionals like nurses, doctors, and the hospital IPC team.
Together, we work on innovative solutions to maintaining high cleanliness and sanitisation standards. It may not seem like it, but it is something that has the potential to save lives. Our shared goal is to design, implement, and train others in effective infection control procedures, ensuring safety for all at the hospital.
Can you provide a deeper insight into infection control?
Preventing the spread of infections, in general, is a lot more complex than one may think. In the realm of ICP, there’s a constant learning curve. The key is to be proactive, staying on top of the latest medical and scientific discoveries.
At Bidvest Noonan, I liaise with numerous hospitals. Each has its unique needs based on factors like demographics, services, and location. My role starts with understanding these specific needs, followed by crafting bespoke solutions in collaboration with my team. Effective communication with the hospital’s prevention control unit and microbiologists is essential for finding the right strategies.
Since you have joined, can you share a highlight from your time at Bidvest Noonan?
So far, being part of Bidvest Noonan has been a very rewarding experience. A standout moment was when I was part of the team reviewing healthcare award nominations, and it felt great to be part of this process.
Engaging in discussions about our healthcare sites has strengthened my bond with the team and my role here. Being able to contribute to those important decisions was very motivating for me.
Who or what has been your greatest inspiration?
Without a doubt, healthcare professionals. Being one myself, I’ve witnessed the dedication and commitment they show in ensuring the best for their patients.
Lastly, do you have a motto that guides you?
“Prevention is protection.” By embracing basic preventive measures, like hand hygiene and proper etiquette, we can reduce numerous infections and ease the burden on the hospitals and the healthcare system.