CIC Exam for Certification Board of Infection Control and Epidemiology, Inc. (CBIC) Latest Update

CIC Exam for Certification Board of Infection Control and Epidemiology, Inc. (CBIC) Latest Update

The Certification Board of Infection Control and Epidemiology, Inc. (CBIC) plays a pivotal role in maintaining high standards in the field of infection prevention and control through its certification programs. These certifications, particularly the Certified Infection Control (CIC®) credential, are essential for professionals in healthcare settings who aim to demonstrate their expertise and commitment to best practices in preventing infections and ensuring patient safety. Recent updates from CBIC have introduced several significant changes to the examination process and recertification pathways, reflecting the organization’s dedication to maintaining the rigor and relevance of its certifications. Below is a comprehensive overview of the latest updates and their implications for current and aspiring certification holders.

Forward Navigation for CIC®, a-IPC™, and LTC-CIP® Examinations

Effective January 2, 2025, CBIC implemented forward navigation for its CIC®, Associate-Infection Prevention and Control (a-IPC™), and Long-Term Care Certification in Infection Prevention (LTC-CIP®) examinations. Under this new protocol, candidates are required to answer each question in sequence without the ability to return to previous questions. This means that once an answer is confirmed, it cannot be changed, and candidates can no longer flag questions for review. However, CBIC has retained the text highlight and strikeout tools to assist candidates in focusing on and analyzing the questions effectively.

This change aligns with best practices in healthcare certification examinations, where forward navigation is increasingly being adopted. Forward navigation ensures that candidates engage with each question thoroughly and prevents reliance on revisiting earlier questions to adjust answers. Additionally, this modification enhances the security of the examination process by reducing the likelihood of answer pattern analysis or unauthorized sharing of exam content. For candidates, this emphasizes the importance of thorough preparation and clear decision-making during the examination.

Recertification Examination Changes

Looking ahead, CBIC has announced that the open-book, untimed recertification examination will be discontinued effective January 1, 2026. Historically, the open-book recertification option allowed professionals to renew their CIC® certification by completing a self-paced assessment, providing flexibility for those juggling busy professional schedules. With the upcoming changes, professionals will have two pathways to maintain their certification:

1. Accumulation of Infection Prevention Units (IPUs): Infection Prevention Units (IPUs) are earned by participating in professional development activities, such as attending relevant conferences, completing educational courses, publishing research, or contributing to infection prevention initiatives. This pathway recognizes and rewards professionals for their ongoing contributions to the field and ensures they stay updated on the latest advancements in infection prevention and control.

2. Retaking the Initial Proctored CIC® Examination: For professionals who prefer to demonstrate their knowledge through a formal examination, the option to retake the original proctored CIC® exam remains available. This route offers an opportunity to reaffirm their comprehensive understanding of infection control principles and practices.

The discontinuation of the open-book recertification exam reflects CBIC’s commitment to upholding the highest standards for certification. By focusing on IPUs and proctored examinations, CBIC ensures that recertified professionals continue to exhibit advanced competency and knowledge in infection prevention.

Advanced Leadership Certification in Infection Prevention and Control (AL-CIP)

In addition to updates to the CIC® program, CBIC is launching a new Advanced Leadership Certification in Infection Prevention and Control (AL-CIP) for professionals who demonstrate exceptional expertise and leadership in the field. Applications for this prestigious certification will open on January 21, 2025, and close on February 28, 2025.

The AL-CIP certification is designed for individuals who have a track record of influencing policy, mentoring other professionals, and driving innovation in infection prevention. Unlike traditional examinations, the AL-CIP certification is portfolio-based, requiring applicants to submit documentation of their professional accomplishments, leadership roles, and contributions to the field. This assessment method recognizes the diverse ways in which professionals can impact infection prevention beyond the confines of test performance. By introducing this certification, CBIC acknowledges the importance of leadership in addressing complex challenges in infection prevention and control.

Implications for Candidates and Certification Holders

The recent updates introduced by CBIC signify a shift toward more stringent and structured certification and recertification processes. These changes carry several implications for candidates and current certification holders:

1. Enhanced Exam Preparation: With the adoption of forward navigation, candidates must focus on comprehensive preparation to ensure they are equipped to answer each question confidently without revisiting earlier responses. This underscores the importance of a deep understanding of infection prevention principles and their practical applications.

2. Commitment to Lifelong Learning: The discontinuation of the open-book recertification exam places a greater emphasis on ongoing professional development. Certification holders must actively participate in educational activities, contribute to the field, and engage in lifelong learning to maintain their credentials.

3. Recognition of Leadership and Expertise: The introduction of the AL-CIP certification provides an avenue for experienced professionals to gain recognition for their leadership and impact in the field. This certification not only highlights their contributions but also positions them as role models and mentors for the next generation of infection preventionists.

4. Adaptation to Evolving Standards: These updates reflect CBIC’s commitment to aligning its certification programs with evolving standards in healthcare and professional certification. Candidates and certification holders must adapt to these changes to remain competitive and relevant in their roles.

Preparing for the Future

To succeed under the new CBIC guidelines, candidates and certification holders can take the following steps:

• Stay Informed: Regularly visit the CBIC website and subscribe to updates to stay informed about certification requirements, exam formats, and application deadlines.

• Invest in Professional Development: Engage in activities that earn IPUs, such as attending workshops, webinars, and conferences. Document all professional development activities to streamline the IPU submission process.

• Practice Decision-Making Skills: Utilize practice exams and case studies to enhance critical thinking and decision-making skills, ensuring readiness for the forward navigation exam format.

• Build a Strong Portfolio: For those pursuing the AL-CIP certification, start compiling evidence of leadership roles, accomplishments, and contributions to infection prevention initiatives.

• Seek Mentorship: Connect with experienced infection preventionists and certification holders for guidance and insights on navigating the certification and recertification processes.

Conclusion

The updates to the CIC® and other CBIC certifications reflect the organization’s ongoing efforts to uphold excellence in infection prevention and control. By implementing forward navigation, discontinuing the open-book recertification exam, and introducing the AL-CIP certification, CBIC ensures that its certification holders are equipped to meet the challenges of modern healthcare environments. These changes reinforce the value of CBIC credentials and their role in advancing the field of infection prevention and control. For professionals dedicated to this critical area of healthcare, these updates provide an opportunity to demonstrate their expertise, commitment, and leadership in safeguarding public health.