AHCA/NCAL is holding a webinar series this year focused on workforce related matters impacting our long term care providers across the country.  This series is focused on issues from career ladders to getting more youth interested in the long term care field to hiring immigrants and refugees.  During this series, hear directly from provider members – including AHCA/NCAL workforce committee members – and other experts on these matters on what has and hasn’t worked from their experiences.  It is also an opportunity to get your pressing questions answered. 

Registration is free to AHCA/NCAL members. 

If you are not able to attend live, the recording will be provided to you. A certificate of attendance will be available after webinar. (No CEs)

Webinar's in this series will include:

1. Building the Path: Creating Careers in Long Term Care
2. Refugee Workforce Partnerships in Long Term Care
3. Career Upskilling: Creating Opportunities to Level Up
4. Key Strategies for Retaining Your LTC Workforce 
5. Building Employee Resiliency through Person-Centered Approaches
6. Why Registered Apprenticeship? How It CAN Help Build Your LTC Workforce Register to Attend Live
7. Youth Engagement in LTC Part 1: Register to Attend Live
8. Youth Engagement in LTC Part 2: Register to Attend Live

Follow the Instructions Below to Register: 

• To avoid technical problems, use Google Chrome. 
• Members will need to log in using their existing email and password first. 
• Once you are logged in to the website you will be able to register by clicking the green register button at the top of the page. 
• If you have forgotten your password click here. 
• If you are new to the site, you can create an account here. Answer all fields on the create an account page- especially locating your company name. You can search by name or zip code. After creating an account, you will be able to register.

Email educate@ahca.org if you need assistance.

STATEMENT OF AHCA/NCAL’S ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI) POLICY

To foster an environment of candor and the open exchange of ideas, AHCA/NCAL prohibits the recording of meetings by attendees. This includes but is not limited to any use of artificial-intelligence tools or assistants that record and transcribe information. AHCA/NCAL has the right to immediately remove AI tools or assistants present on calls and placed by attendees.

© 2025 American Health Care Association. All rights reserved. Materials subject to this copyright may be photocopied or distributed for the purpose of nonprofit or educational advancement. The use, photocopying, and distribution for commercial purposes of any of these materials is expressly prohibited without the prior written permission of American Health Care Association.

The shift coach training was created to assist nursing home leadership learn how to achieve widespread consistent use of infection prevention and control practices. Particular highlights of the training include how to engage all long-term care facility staff in infection control practices. The training builds on the body of evidence that supports how leadership can implement a safety of culture that results in high reliability in health care that leads to consistent use of infection prevention and control practices by long term care staff through engaging in a just-in-time peer coaching process. This shift coach training curriculum provides short modules to breakdown a large topic into manageable pieces. The training is appropriate for facility leadership, infection preventionists, unit supervisors, and department leads. 

After attending this training, participants will be able to:

• Describe what a shift coach is and their relationship to the infection preventionist and infection prevention and control improvement process
• Identify characteristics if a shift coach
• Implement shift coaches and huddles into everyday practice
• Discuss how to sustain a shift coach program for infection prevention and control improvement efforts 

The training is appropriate for facility leadership, infection preventionists, unit supervisors, and department leads.

This free training is available to AHCA/NCAL members and non-members thanks to a CDC Project Firstline grant award 6 NU50CK000582-04-01. 

Credits Available Upon Completion: 2 contact hours nurse credits through the Iowa Board of Nursing are available upon course completion.

Instructions to Register: 

• To avoid technical problems, use Google Chrome. 
• Members will need to log in using their existing email and password first. 
• Once you are logged in to the website you will be able to register by clicking the green register button at the top of the page. 
• If you have forgotten your password click here. 
• If you are new to the site, you can create an account here. Answer all fields on the create an account page- especially locating your company name. You can search by name or zip code. 
• After creating an account, you will be logged in and able to register.
• Click register and complete registration now. You will be directed to your cart to answer two questions in the checkout process. Access is free however, the answers to the questions are required before confirming registration. 

Instructions to Begin, after registering: 

• To begin the training, click on the Course Contents tab.
• Participants can move throughout the course by clicking on the header of each module to expand or minimize their view. 
• Participants must take and pass the final test to complete the course for CEs. 

Email educate@ahca.org if you need assistance. 

© 2025 American Health Care Association. All rights reserved. The Shift Coach Program materials subject to this copyright may be photocopied or distributed for the purpose of nonprofit or educational advancement. The use, photocopying, and distribution for commercial purposes of any of these materials is expressly prohibited without the prior written permission of the American Health Care Association.

It is critical for nursing centers and assisted living communities to address and mitigate resident-to-resident occurrences or potential incidents of resident-to-resident mistreatment. While mistreatment may or may not meet the definition of abuse, it would include negative and aggressive physical, sexual, or verbal interactions between long-term care residents that is unwelcome and have high potential to cause physical or psychological distress in the recipient.

Objectives:

1. Conduct a thorough investigation with proper documentation, follow up, and monitoring and care planning as needed.  
2. Create a structured self-assessment process to address the resident-to-resident occurrence and minimize or mitigate similar events for all residents. This includes a need to:
   • Document immediate interventions;
   • Conduct a root cause analysis process to identify the specific/source, root cause or causal factor of the problem; and 
   • Identify future actions to ensure sustained efforts to identify and prevent potential resident-to-resident mistreatment.
3. Identify existing AHCA/NCAL resources to support providers in addressing resident-to-resident mistreatment. 

Note: These tools were developed by members of AHCA/NCAL’s Survey/Regulatory Committee to assist centers and communities in addressing adverse events and potential adverse events, documenting and tracking the steps they have taken, and identifying best practices for ongoing improvement. Use of these tools does not guarantee regulatory compliance nor mitigate potential liability. Providers should adapt their tools, policies, and processes as needed to ensure compliance with current federal and state requirements and use both professional judgement and the advice of legal counsel in determining whether or how to share these mitigation tools.

© 2022 American Health Care Association. All rights reserved. 

All Provider Self-Assessment and Mitigation Tools for Resident to Resident Occurrences materials subject to this copyright may be photocopied or distributed for the purpose of nonprofit or educational advancement. The use, photocopying, and distribution for commercial purposes of any of these materials is expressly prohibited without the prior written permission of American Health Care Association.

OBJECTIVES: At the conclusion of this training, participants will be able to:

1. Describe the impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the culture of AL/RCF care relative to behavioral health, quality care, and quality of life;
2. Apply the concept of transformational leadership and explain the benefits to workforce development;
3. Explain the value of mastering Emotional Intelligence (EI) to improve morale, social, and work-related interactions; and
4. Create an environment of care that speaks to the quality of life of everyone living and working in the community.

INTENDED AUDIENCE: Leadership, Managers, Supervisors

AL/RCF leaders are traumatized, fatigued, disillusioned and, in some cases, hopeless to recover from the COVID-19 Pandemic. With many seasoned leaders opting out of the next chapter of AL/RCF, valuable experiential knowledge and support is out of reach for a new generation of leaders. What will the AL/RCF community of tomorrow look like? Do you know where your organization is headed or how you will attract and sustain the workforce you’ll need to meet the needs of future customers? 

This conversation will inspire a new leadership perspective, moving all leaders to be creative and tenacious in meeting the challenges of the emerging culture of AL/RCF. The concept of transformative leadership and strategies every leader should consider in creating an environment of care that speaks to the needs and satisfaction of everyone living and working in the community is the focus of this session.

COST: $25 AHCA/NCAL Member

 A certificate of attendance will be available after webinar.  

Receive $10 off registration fee when purchasing four webinars. All webinars must be in your cart during the checkout process in order to receive discount.

Additional webinars are:  

• Caring for a New Generation in Assisted Living 
• All by Myself: Overcoming Social Isolation and Loneliness in Assisted Living 
• Love Your Neighbor: Preventing Resident-to-Resident Aggression 

The AHCA/NCAL webinar, which will be held on Tuesday, September 17, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. EST, titled  “HUD’s 232 Program-Updates in Production and Asset Management”, will cover a range of topics related to HUD’s Residential Care Facility Mortgage Insurance Program.  

Presentation topics will include:

• Section 232 Program Overview
• Numbers/trends on application volume, timing, and underwriting issues of note
• Section 232 Green MIP Transactions:  Borrowers’ Post-Closing Responsibilities
• Improving Data Quality in the Portal
• REAC NSPIRE physical inspections
• HUD-required Action Plans

 Note that, for those unfamiliar with the Section 232 Residential Care facilities Mortgage Insurance Program, the presenters will briefly summarize the program and its benefits.  Additionally, the session will include opportunities to ask any Section 232-related questions you may have.

HUD Speakers:

John Hartung, Director, Policy, Risk Analysis and Lender Relations Division

Philip Head, Director of Asset Management

Tim Gruenes, Director of Production

Angela Collier, Deputy Director of Asset Management 

This webinar is open to AHCA/NCAL members and non-members. There is no charge for participation.

Membership to AHCA/NCAL is not required to access the materials however, you will need to create an account to identify your personal access to the materials.

How to Register: 

• To avoid technical problems, use Google Chrome. 
• Participants will need to login using their existing ahcancalED username and password first. 
• Once you are logged in to the website you will be able to register by clicking the green register button at the top of the page. 
• If you have forgotten your password click here. 
• If you are new to the site, you can create an account here. After creating an account, you will be able to register for the webinar. 

Need further assistance? Email educate@ahca.org

OBJECTIVES: At the conclusion of this training, participants will be able to:

1. Describe the impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic relative to quarantine and social distancing on psychosocial well-being;
2. Develop a well-trained, culturally competent staff prepared to meet the behavioral health needs of a diverse and ever-changing population; and
3. Implement effective interventions to anticipate and minimize the potential for aggression and altercations.

INTENDED AUDIENCE: Assisted Living Communities and appropriate to all disciplines and positions.

While there has been increasing attention to the subject of abuse prevention in long-term care, aggression between residents is rarely recognized as a significant concern. Too often, negative and aggressive physical, sexual, or verbal interactions that in any other community setting would likely be construed as unwelcome and potentially leading to physical or psychological distress are overlooked.

The COVID-19 Pandemic has added an additional layer of stress to an already volatile environment. Heightened anxiety, depression, loneliness, and cabin fever have resulted in an increase in dissatisfaction and social unrest. This session provides strategies for anticipating the circumstances and events that may trigger negative interactions in a diverse community of residents, offering new thinking on how to achieve an environment of healing and recovery for today, and tomorrow.

CONTENT:

1. Review of the impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the long-term care industry;
2. Discussion on the circumstances (i.e., clinical, social) motivating social unrest and the steps
   necessary to creating an inclusive, satisfying environment; and 
3. Strategies for proactive assessment and care planning to minimize the potential for disputes and aggressive behavior.

If you are not able to attend live, the recording will be provided to you. A certificate of attendance will be available after webinar. 

Receive $10 off registration fee when purchasing four webinars. All webinars must be in your cart during the checkout process in order to receive discount.

Additional webinars are: 

• Caring for a New Generation in Assisted Living 
• All by Myself: Overcoming Social Isolation and Loneliness in Assisted Living 
• Metamorphosis: Leadership in a Transformative Culture 

Mitigating Liability Claims in Assisted Living is a webinar created to help assisted living providers understand the top areas of liability risk and the steps that can be taken to reduce liability risk in assisted living. The Webinar provides real-life scenarios of high-risk situations, and how to mitigate risk when these situations arise. If you are not able to attend live the recording will be provided to you. A certificate of attendance will be available after the webinar. (No CEs)

OBJECTIVES: At the conclusion of this training, participants will be able to:

• Identify the top three areas of liability risk in assisted living.
• State three steps that can be taken to reduce liability risk in assisted living.
• Evaluate their own policies, procedures, and practices for liability risk based on knowledge gained in session.
• Discuss trends and the role of various staff in assisted living to reduce liability risk.

INTENDED AUDIENCE: Leadership, Managers, Supervisors, Admissions/Marketing Staff, Risk Management Staff

Registration is free and available for AHCA/NCAL Members only.

Follow the Instructions Below to Register:  

• To avoid technical problems, use Google Chrome.  
• Members will need to log in using their existing email and password first.  
• Once you are logged in to the website you can register by clicking the green register button at the top right of the page.  
• If you have forgotten your password click here.  
• You can create an account here if you are new to the site. Answer all fields on the Create an Account page; especially locating your company name. You can search by name or zip code. After creating an account, you will be able to register.

Email educate@ahca.org if you need assistance.

If you cannot attend live, an archive recording will be available post-event.  Registrants will be awarded a certificate of attendance after completion of the webinar.  (No CEs)

© 2024 American Health Care Association. All rights reserved. Materials subject to this copyright may be photocopied or distributed for the purpose of nonprofit or educational advancement. The use, photocopying, and distribution for commercial purposes of any of these materials is expressly prohibited without the prior written permission of the American Health Care Association.

Now more than ever, an Infection Prevention Control Officer is critical to have in your building/organization. AHCA/NCAL Infection Preventionist Specialized Training (IPCO) for Assisted Living, is a specialized course of study for healthcare professionals who desire to serve as Infection Preventionists (IPs) in a Long Term Care setting, which is a requirement by CMS for skilled nursing centers. With this version for assisted living, we’ve added information on how these concepts can also be applied to the assisted living setting but still also contains information necessary to be recognized by CMS as having received additional training in infection control. Through this program, individuals will be specially trained to effectively implement and manage an Infection Prevention and Control Program in either assisted living or skilled nursing centers.

The American Health Care Association/National Center for Assisted Living is happy to announce the launch of the assisted living version of the Infection Prevention Control Officer (IPCO) training.  This updated version incorporates information from the COVID-19 pandemic,  the most recent regulatory requirements as well as sections on Candida auris, Multi-Drug Resistant Organisms (MDROs), and Enhanced Barrier Precautions (EBP).  Additionally, there is an entire section on how to get an effective water management program running in your center.  

The Assisted Living IPCO Training includes:

• Added:
  • Multi-drug Resistant Organisms (MDROs) and Enhanced Barrier Precautions (EBP)
  • Candida auris
  • Water management program
  • COVID-19
•  25.5 ANCC Contact Hours and 28.75 hours of continuing education credit for Nursing Home Administration and Residential Care/ Assisted Living Administration
• Updated regulatory requirements for Skilled Nursing Facilities that make this version eligible to meet the requirements for both SNF and assisted living facilities

The training is an online, self-study program on ahcancalED. The training includes online lectures, case studies, and interactive components taught by an array of experts from around the country. 

Objectives

Students who complete this course successfully will be able to: 

• Demonstrate how to effectively manage an Infection Prevention and Control Program within my healthcare setting
• Convey to staff effective strategies to prevent infections
• Implement practices and procedures to mitigate infections
• Evaluate practices and policies related to infection prevention
• Provide ongoing education to others including staff, residents, and families

Cost: $450 AHCA/NCAL members | $650 Non-members 

Group purchase with discount structure is available for groups of five or more. There are no refunds and no transfers. Visit the FAQs to know more about the discount offered.

Accredited Continuing Education

In support of improving patient care, this activity has been planned and implemented by University of Nebraska Medical Center and American Health Care Association. University of Nebraska Medical Center is jointly accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), to provide continuing education for the healthcare team. 

NURSES/NURSE PRACTITIONERS

The University of Nebraska Medical Center designates this activity for 25.5 ANCC contact hours. Nurses should only claim credit for the actual time spent participating in the activity.

Certificates

Three certificates will be awarded upon successful completion of the program:

1. UNMC CON CiPDI will provide a certificate awarding 25.5 contact hours.
2. AHCA/NCAL will provide a Specialized Training Completion certificate, valid for 3 years.  
3. 28.75 continuing education hours (CEs) from the National Association of Long Term Care Administrator Boards (NAB)

Certificates Renewal - specialized training completion certificates are valid for 3 years. Click here for information about renewing your AHCA IPCO Certificate. 

If you are not sure of your member status, please email educate@ahca.org before making payment. 

© 2024 American Health Care Association. All rights reserved. All Infection Preventionist Specialized Training (IPCO) for Assisted Living materials subject to this copyright may be photocopied or distributed for the purpose of nonprofit or educational advancement. The use, photocopying, and distribution for commercial purposes of any of these materials is expressly prohibited without the prior written permission of American Health Care Association.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the AHCA Infection Preventionist Specialized Training (IPCO)?

It is a specialized training for healthcare professionals who desire to serve as Infection Preventionists (IPs) in either Assisted Living or Skilled Nursing Centers. as established in the CMS Reform of Requirements of Participation for Long Term Care Facilities (required by November 2019).  Through this program, individuals will be specially trained to effectively implement and manage an Infection Prevention and Control Program in both a skilled nursing center and assisted living and will receive a certificate that is recognized as completing additional training in infection control to meet CMS requirements to serve as an IP in Skilled Nursing Centers. 

Do you have to be an AHCA NCAL member to register for IPCO?

No. Both AHCA NCAL members and nonmembers are eligible to participate in the IPCO course.

How much does it cost to take the IPCO training?

Registration fee: $450 AHCA NCAL members, $650 nonmembers. Payment and registration is completed by individual participant in the IPCO product in ahcancalED.

How can an individual register and pay for IPCO? 

The individual who wants to take the IPCO course must login to ahcancalED and register for the course under their individual login which if you don’t have or forgot can easily set up by following the instructions. Payment will be made in ahcancalED upon registration via credit card or E-check. Please be sure to have your credit card or banking information ready at checkout. Paying by credit card or E-check will grant automatic access to the course. Registrations for IPCO cannot be done by another person or under another person’s ahcancalED login.

-- for a better web experience, please use Google Chrome Internet Browser and NOT Internet Explorer. 

How can an organization group register and pay for IPCO?

Group purchase is available for groups of 5 or more.  AHCA NCAL offers the following discount structure for groups: 5-49 registrations will receive $25 off each registration.  50 or more registrations will receive $75 off each registration. 

After full payment is made for group purchase of IPCO, the designated individuals who the IPCO registration payment was made for, will be provided with a unique group code for their group which will translate to $0 due upon registration (because full payment has already been received).  One code will be provided for each group with a max allowance of times that the code can be used based on the group’s payment. 

Each individual will need to login to the AHCA NCAL website to access ahcancalED and then complete their own registration using the group code.

Can I get a refund on the IPCO product if I no longer want to take the course?

No refunds are issued for IPCO.

Can my IPCO registration be transferred to a colleague?

IPCO registrations cannot be transferred. The individual that registers for the course is the only one that has access to it.

Who is eligible to take this training?

Anyone can take this training.  The AHCA NCAL Infection Preventionist Specialized Training does not require a particular healthcare license. 

AHCA/NCAL recommends that administrators also consider taking the course to gain a deeper understanding of infection prevention and control in the overall operation of the building.  Just a reminder that administrators should not serve as designated Infection Preventionists in Skilled Nursing Center per CMS regulations unless they have separate formal advanced clinical training and/or licensing such as a nursing license.     

Please note, there are specific CMS requirements for the individual(s) who will serve as Infection Preventionist(s) in Skilled Nursing Center. While there are not currently any national requirements for assisted living facilities, states may establish specific requirements at some point. 

CMS regulations for an person to serve as an IP in the Skilled Nursing Center is governed by 483.80 (b) Infection preventionist. The Skilled Nursing Facility must designate one or more individual(s) as the infection preventionist(s) (IPs) who are responsible for the facility’s IPCP. The IP must:

(1) Have primary professional training in nursing, medical technology, microbiology, epidemiology, or other related field;

(2) Be qualified by education, training, experience or certification;

(3) Work at least part-time at the facility; and

(4) Have completed specialized training in infection prevention and control.

What are the requirements to successfully complete IPCO?

Participate in each module and successfully complete quizzes throughout the course and final test (achieve at least 80% correct each time)

Modules 1-7 will have quizzes with 5 questions (4 of 5 questions must be accurately completed) except for module 3 which will have 10 questions (8 of 10 questions must be accurately completed).

The final test after Module 9 will have 125 questions (100 of 125 questions must be accurately completed).

Each module quiz may be attempted three times before the participant is required to repeat the module and then reattempt answering questions. 

Complete course evaluation after each module and at the end of the course. 

Course completion must occur within 12 months of the date the registrant starts the first required component of the program; which is the copyright agreement.(not registration date)

How long does it take on average to complete the IPCO course?

The learning time of all modules, review of additional resources, time to complete the modules and final course evaluations and quizzes/final test accounts for 25 hours and 30 minutes. 

Participants are encouraged to spread out the course over time in an organized manner – such as scheduling module reviews on various dates/times when they can focus their attention to it.  The course could be completed within a week or over several months based on how the individual would like to approach the program. 

Are Contact Hours awarded for IPCO?

Yes, 25.5 ANCC contact hours and 28.75 hours continuing education hours (CEs) from the National Association of Long Term Care Administrator Boards (NAB) are available for completion of this program. 

In support of improving patient care, this activity has been planned and implemented by University of Nebraska Medical Center and American Health Care Association. University of Nebraska Medical Center is jointly accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), to provide continuing education for the healthcare team.

What does a participant get when they complete the IPCO course?

Participants receive three certificates at the completion of IPCO:

• UNMC CON CiPDI will provide a certificate awarding 25.5 contact hours to participants who successfully achieve the completion requirements.
• 28.75 continuing education hours (CEs) from the National Association of Long Term Care Administrator Boards (NAB)
• Specialized Training Completion certificate from AHCA NCAL, valid for 3 years. 

How long do the certificates last?

The CE certificates do not expire. The Specialized Training Completion certificate expires after 3 years from issue date.

How can someone renew their IPCO certificate?

Renewal may occur by the options below:

Option 1: Registering for a competency exam requiring a grade of 80% or above to successfully receive certificate of renewal. This option is only available to individuals who have previously successfully completed the full IPCO course and are seeking renewal.  

Option 2: Registering for the IPCO course and completing the course requirements as outlined above. 

Is IPCO a certification?

No, IPCO is a specialized training program with a certificate upon successful completion. While it is not a certification, IPCO does meet both the content and intensity/duration of CMS requirements to serve as an Infection Preventionist. 

Does IPCO meet CMS requirements?

Yes, IPCO meets the expectations CMS has outlined on the required components of the specialized training. 

CMS is not endorsing any particular training, rather CMS is focused on the content and intensity/duration of what will meet the specialized training requirement.  Based on information AHCA NCAL received from CMS, the IPCO training meets both the content and intensity/duration of CMS requirements.  

Can I print the presentation slides and how can I access the resources within the module? 

Each module contains a resource guide which includes a copy of the presentation and any necessary supporting documents discussed within the module. This resource guide can be found at the top right corner within each module. 

I am having technical difficulties with IPCO, can you help?

Please email us at educate@ahca.org.

How can an organization group register and pay for IPCO?

One user can purchase multiple registrations for other users by adding them to their cart during the checkout process; using the button displayed in image below. (This can only be done if all individuals have an ahcancalED account.) The price of the training will be based on each registrant’s member type (member or non-member). 

*payment tip: please be sure when you are paying with a credit card the bill-to and shipping address are the same* 

Group purchase is available for groups of 25 or more. If you are interested in group purchasing, please email educate@ahca.org

After full payment is made for group purchase, the designated individuals who the course registration payment was made for, will be provided with a unique group code for their group which will translate to $0 due upon registration (because full payment has already been received).  One code will be provided for each group with a max allowance of times that the code can be used based on the group’s payment. 

Each individual will need to login to the AHCA website to access ahcancalED and then complete their own registration using the group code.

PLEASE NOTE THAT WE ONLY ACCEPT PAYMENT IN THE FORM OF A CHECK FOR GROUP PURCHASES.  

Welcome!

AHCA/NCAL’s Infection Preventionist Specialized Training (IPCO) is recommended for individuals responsible for infection prevention and control in all long term care settings and is specifically tailored to train Infection Preventionists (IPs)  in nursing facilities.  

CMS mandates that every nursing facility have a designated and specially trained Infection Preventionist who is running a comprehensive infection prevention and control program. AHCA recommends that nursing facilities train at least two clinical staff members as IPs should one IP leave or be unavailable.  

The comprehensive IPCO training covers:

• COVID-19
• Other common pathogens
• Multidrug-resistant organisms
• Antibiotic stewardship
• Water management and more

About the online training:

• Flexible and self-paced (take up to 12 months to complete)
• Online learning 24/7
• 9 course modules

Cost:  $450 AHCA/NCAL members | $650 Non-members 

Group purchase with discount structure is available for groups of five or more. There are no refunds and no transfers. Visit the FAQs to know more about the discount offered. 

Objectives

Individuals who successfully complete this course will learn how to: 

• Demonstrate how to effectively manage an Infection Prevention and Control Program within a nursing or assisted living facility
  
• Convey to staff effective strategies to prevent infections
• Implement practices and procedures to mitigate infections
• Evaluate practices and policies related to infection prevention
• Provide on-going education to others including staff, residents and families

Individual module objectives are found in the module resource tab within the module presentations and in the User Guide.  Participants must complete all training modules and successfully pass module quizzes and final test with a grade of 80 or above to receive a certificate of completion from AHCA that is valid for three years.  

Accredited Continuing Education

In support of improving patient care, this activity has been planned and implemented by University of Nebraska Medical Center and American Health Care Association. University of Nebraska Medical Center is jointly accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), to provide continuing education for the healthcare team. 

NURSES/NURSE PRACTITIONERS

The University of Nebraska Medical Center designates this activity for 24.5 ANCC contact hours. Nurses should only claim credit for the actual time spent participating in the activity.

Certificates

Three certificates will be awarded upon successful completion of the program:

1. UNMC CON CNE will provide a certificate awarding 24.5 contact hours.
2. AHCA will provide a Specialized Training Completion certificate, valid for 3 years.  
3. 24.5 continuing education hours (CEs) from the National Association of Long Term Care Administrator Boards (NAB)

Certificates Renewal - specialized training completion certificates are valid for 3 years. Click here for information about renewing your AHCA IPCO Certificate. 

If you are not sure of your member status, please email educate@ahca.org before making payment. 

© 2024 American Health Care Association. All rights reserved. All Infection Preventionist Specialized Training (IPCO) materials subject to this copyright may be photocopied or distributed for the purpose of nonprofit or educational advancement. The use, photocopying, and distribution for commercial purposes of any of these materials is expressly prohibited without the prior written permission of American Health Care Association.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the AHCA Infection Preventionist Specialized Training (IPCO)?

It is a specialized training for healthcare professionals who desire to serve as Infection Preventionists (IPs) as established in the CMS Reform of Requirements of Participation for Long Term Care Facilities (required by November 2019).  Through this program, individuals will be specially trained to effectively implement and manage an Infection Prevention and Control Program in a nursing center. 

Do you have to be an AHCA member to register for IPCO?

No. Both AHCA members and nonmembers are eligible to participate in the IPCO course.

How much does it cost to take the IPCO training?

Registration fee: $450 members, $650 nonmembers. Payment and registration is completed by individual participant in the IPCO product in ahcancalED.

How can an individual register and pay for IPCO? 

The individual who wants to take the IPCO course must login to ahcancalED and register for the course under their individual login.  Payment will be made in ahcancalED upon registration via credit card or E-check. Please be sure to have your credit card or banking information ready at checkout. Paying by credit card or E-check will grant automatic access to the course. Registrations for IPCO cannot be done by another person or under another person’s ahcancalED login.

-- for a better web experience, please use Google Chrome Internet Browser and NOT Internet Explorer. 

How can an organization group register and pay for IPCO?

Group purchase is available for groups of 5 or more.  AHCA offers the following discount structure for groups: 5-49 registrations will receive $25 off each registration.  50 or more registrations will receive $75 off each registration. 

After full payment is made for group purchase of IPCO, the designated individuals who the IPCO registration payment was made for, will be provided with a unique group code for their group which will translate to $0 due upon registration (because full payment has already been received).  One code will be provided for each group with a max allowance of times that the code can be used based on the group’s payment. 

Each individual will need to login to the AHCA website to access ahcancalED and then complete their own registration using the group code.

Can I get a refund on the IPCO product if I no longer want to take the course?

No refunds are issued for IPCO.

Can my IPCO registration be transferred to a colleague?

IPCO registrations cannot be transferred. The individual that registers for the course is the only one that has access to it.

Who is eligible to take this training?

Anyone can take this training.  The AHCA Infection Preventionist Specialized Training does not require a particular healthcare license. 

AHCA/NCAL recommends that administrators also consider taking the course to gain a deeper understanding of infection prevention and control in the overall operation of the building.  Just a reminder that administrators should not serve as designated Infection Preventionists unless they have separate formal advanced clinical training and/or licensing such as a nursing license.     

Please note, there are specific requirements for the individual(s) who will serve as Infection Preventionist(s).  CMS requirements for a designated Infection Preventionist state:

483.80 (b) Infection preventionist. The facility must designate one or more individual(s) as the infection preventionist(s) (IPs) who are responsible for the facility’s IPCP. The IP must:

(1) Have primary professional training in nursing, medical technology, microbiology, epidemiology, or other related field;

(2) Be qualified by education, training, experience or certification;

(3) Work at least part-time at the facility; and

(4) Have completed specialized training in infection prevention and control.

What are the requirements to successfully complete IPCO?

Participate in each module and successfully complete quizzes throughout the course and final test (achieve at least 80% correct each time)

Modules 1-7 will have quizzes with 5 questions (4 of 5 questions must be accurately completed) except for module 3 which will have 10 questions (8 of 10 questions must be accurately completed).

The final test after Module 9 will have 20 questions (16 of 20 questions must be accurately completed)

Each module quiz may be attempted three times before the participant is required to repeat the module and then reattempt answering questions. 

Complete course evaluation after each module and at the end of the course. 

Course completion must occur within 12 months of the date the registrant starts the first required component of the program; which is the copyright agreement.(not registration date)

How long does it take on average to complete the IPCO course?

The learning time of all modules, review of additional resources, time to complete the modules and final course evaluations and quizzes/final test accounts for 24 hours and 30 minutes. 

Participants are encouraged to spread out the course over time in an organized manner – such as scheduling module reviews on various dates/times when they can focus their attention to it.  The course could be completed within a week or over several months based on how the individual would like to approach the program. 

Are Contact Hours awarded for IPCO?

Yes, 24.5 ANCC contact hours and 24.5 continuing education hours (CEs) from the National Association of Long Term Care Administrator Boards (NAB) are available for completion of this program. 

In support of improving patient care, this activity has been planned and implemented by University of Nebraska Medical Center and American Health Care Association. University of Nebraska Medical Center is jointly accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), to provide continuing education for the healthcare team.

What does a participant get when they complete the IPCO course?

Participants receive three certificates at the completion of IPCO:

• UNMC CON CNE will provide a certificate awarding 24.5 contact hours to participants who successfully achieve the completion requirements.
• 24.5 continuing education hours (CEs) from the National Association of Long Term Care Administrator Boards (NAB)
• Specialized Training Completion certificate from AHCA, valid for 3 years. 

How long do the certificates last?

The CE certificates do not expire. The Specialized Training Completion certificate expires after 3 years from issue date.

How can someone renew their IPCO certificate?

Renewal may occur by the options below:

Option 1: Registering for a competency exam requiring a grade of 80% or above to successfully receive certificate of renewal. This option is only available to individuals who have previously successfully completed the full IPCO course and are seeking renewal.  

Option 2: Registering for the IPCO course and completing the course requirements as outlined above. 

Is IPCO a certification?

No, IPCO is a specialized training program with a certificate upon successful completion. While it is not a certification, IPCO does meet both the content and intensity/duration of CMS requirements to serve as an Infection Preventionist. 

Does IPCO meet CMS requirements?

Yes, IPCO meets the expectations CMS has outlined on the required components of the specialized training. 

CMS is not endorsing any particular training, rather CMS is focused on the content and intensity/duration of what will meet the specialized training requirement.  Based on information AHCA received from CMS, the IPCO training meets both the content and intensity/duration of CMS requirements.  

Can I print the presentation slides and how can I access the resources within the module? 

Each module contains a resource guide which includes a copy of the presentation and any necessary supporting documents discussed within the module. This resource guide can be found at the top right corner within each module. 

I am having technical difficulties with IPCO, can you help?

Please email us at educate@ahca.org.

"What a great program! I was able to complete at my own pace and learned a lot." - Connie Francioli, RN,WCC, Director of Nursing, Odd Fellow & Rebekah Rehabilitation RHCC Inc.

"The AHCA IPCO program gave me the tools I needed to be effective in my role as the Infection Preventionist and to initiate an antibiotic stewardship program.  The modules and website were easy to navigate and very convenient for my schedule. Thanks a bunch!"- Adriana Casale, BSN, RN, Assistant Director of Nursing Services, Roberts Health Centre

"I thoroughly enjoyed the course.  I am a new to the Infection Prevention world and this engaging and interactive course provided an excellent foundation for me.  I hope to use this as a stepping stone to advance the Infection Prevention culture within my facility and my community." - Daniel Mazzone, Associate Director of Nursing and Infection Preventionist at the Acadia Center for Nursing

"The IPCO training was intense but I gained the confidence to implement key initiatives in our facility, including antibiotic stewardship.  I have a lot to learn but I know I can go back to the course and get the information I need with any situation that I am confronted with." - Karla Ruther, Clarence Senior Living Director of Nursing

"I really enjoyed the IPCO program. It is full of knowledge and information for any infection control program.  I would like to see more infection control class with updates on organisms and new ROPs." - Helen Durden, RN, Education Coordinator, Eagle Health and Rehabilitation

"This course was a good blend of review, new information and practical tools for program improvement in both skilled and long term care settings. I would recommend for any nurse interested in Infection control and prevention." - Becci St Laurent | Senior Director of Education, Palm Healthcare Management, llc

"I am recommending it to our Corporate Team members here at Laurel Health Care.  I know some Associate Team members at Ciena Heath Care have taken this training program, as well, and were very satisfied.  It really enhances and clarifies so much Infection Control information.  I feel much more confident with being and Infection Control practitioner." - Marlissa Corby, Corporate Compliance Officer, Laurel Health Care Company

How can an organization group register and pay for IPCO?

One user can purchase multiple registrations for other users by adding them to their cart during the checkout process; using the button displayed in image below. (This can only be done if all individuals have an ahcancalED account.) The price of the training will be based on each registrant’s member type (member or non-member). 

*payment tip: please be sure when you are paying with a credit card the bill-to and shipping address are the same* 

Group purchase is available for groups of 25 or more. If you are interested in group purchasing, please email educate@ahca.org

After full payment is made for group purchase, the designated individuals who the course registration payment was made for, will be provided with a unique group code for their group which will translate to $0 due upon registration (because full payment has already been received).  One code will be provided for each group with a max allowance of times that the code can be used based on the group’s payment. 

Each individual will need to login to the AHCA website to access ahcancalED and then complete their own registration using the group code.

PLEASE NOTE THAT WE ONLY ACCEPT PAYMENT IN THE FORM OF A CHECK FOR GROUP PURCHASES.  

OBJECTIVES: At the conclusion of this training, participants will be able to:

1. Explain the increasing complexity and cultural influence on social and ethical considerations in matters concerning behavioral health, sexual expression, and substance use in assisted living communities;
2. Describe the importance of understanding the symptoms and challenges associated with a diagnosis of Dementia, PTSD, Mental Disorder, or Substance Use Disorder; and
3. Develop a well-trained, culturally competent, trauma-informed staff prepared to meet the needs of an increasingly diverse population.

INTENDED AUDIENCE: Appropriate to all disciplines and positions

The contemporary long-term care community is challenged to address a broad range of emerging clinical and psychosocial considerations, as the next generation of resident is far more complex. In the wake of the COVID-19 Pandemic, many older adults report feelings of depression and anxiety, turning to substance use, and thoughts of suicide. The numbers of people impacted by dementia continues at epidemic rates, further complicating the contemporary adult care community’s ability to create an environment that is satisfying to an increasingly diverse population.

Understanding the symptoms of illness and the psychosocial manifestations of trauma are two critical elements to creating a livable environment. This discussion explores the clinical and social influences to be considered in the assessment of and response to the behavioral health needs of the community. Accommodating the needs of the next generation requires an understanding of today’s customer – far more independent, outspoken and likely to march to the beat of their own drummer. Strategies for addressing issues relative to dementia and mental health, social conflicts/bullying/aggression, substance abuse, and related concerns are a focus of this conversation.

COST: $25 AHCA/NCAL Member

If you are not able to attend live, the recording will be provided to you. A certificate of attendance will be available after webinar.

Receive $10 off registration fee when purchasing four webinars. All webinars must be in your cart during the checkout process in order to receive discount. 

Additional webinars are:

• All by Myself: Overcoming Social Isolation and Loneliness in Assisted Living - June 12th at 2 pm ET
• Love Your Neighbor: Preventing Resident-to-Resident Aggression - August 14th at 2 pm ET
• Metamorphosis: Leadership in a Transformative Culture - October 16th at 2 pm ET

OSHA is expanding its requirements to electronically submit employee injury data through its Final Rule on Improving Tracking of Workplace Injuries and Illnesses. Nearly all providers are already required to maintain OSHA 300 Logs, Form 301, and Form 300A.  Employers have for the last several years submitted 300A summary data before March 2nd each year. The NEW requirement is for employers with 100 or more employees to electronically submit OSHA 300 logs and Form 301 (incident reports), in addition to the 300A summaries.  Old requirements, such as continuing to maintain COVID-19 Logs, the difference between workers’ compensation and OSHA, recordkeeping best practices, and other key reminders will be presented.

Learning Objectives

Upon completion, participants will be able to:

• Determine the OSHA recordkeeping and reporting requirements pertaining to their operations.
• Plan how to electronically submit OSHA 300 logs, 300A data, and Form 301s.
• Evaluate their measures to comply with privacy concerns and public availability of information.
• Avoid the mistakes, such as submitting alternatives to Form 301, that will not be accepted.
• Review compliance of the broader recordkeeping rule
• Recall FAQs and common OSHA recordkeeping citations.
• Prepare to meet compliance deadlines.

Presenter: Brad Hunt, Chief Risk Officer at Leverity Insurance Group, Inc., an Acrisure Agency

AHCA Resources

• Navigating OSHA Recordkeeping: Introduction, Insights, and NEW Regulation Continued (link).
• How to Interact with an OSHA Inspector (link).
• OSHA Compliance Roadmap (coming soon).

COST: $25 AHCA/NCAL Member 

A certificate of attendance will be available after webinar.

Registration is now open. See the AHCA/NCAL Events page.