Danielle Claasen

A dedicated healthcare professional with over 6 years of clinical ICU experience and current leadership as an Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) Manager in a private hospital in Cape Town. Skilled in developing and implementing IPC protocols, staff training, and outbreak management, with a strong foundation in critical care. Highly adaptable, bilingual, and committed to maintaining the highest standards of patient safety and hospital hygiene.

Infection Prevention and Control Manager at Cape Town Private Hospital (CBMH) (2023-09 – Present)

• Conduct daily isolation checks and maintain up-to-date isolation lists
• Manage IMT Isolate system and perform Root Cause Analyses (RCA) for healthcare-associated infections (HAIs)
• Perform surveillance across wards to monitor infection trends
• Respond rapidly to outbreaks and implement containment measures
• Submit HAI notifications to the Department of Health (DOH)
• Provide on-the-spot training and in-service education to nursing and support staff
• Lead monthly induction (micro-orientation) for new staff
• Facilitate monthly Link Nurse meetings to support unit-level IPC champions
• Conduct monthly audits and feedback on care bundles, endoscopes, milk checks, and support services
• Participate in weekly Nursing Manager meetings and national/regional IPC meetings
• Perform regular environmental and UV stamp audits
• Lead FAD (Facilities and Disinfection) rounds
• Conduct contractor audits to ensure external compliance with IPC standards
• Generate comprehensive monthly IPC reports and weekly EPI (Epidemiological) reports
• Liaise daily with contract managers on IPC-related issues
• Manage documentation, reporting, and compliance tracking
• Coordinate IPC efforts across departments through national and regional meetings

Professional Nurse – Surgical Intensive Care Unit at Cape Town Private Hospital (CBMH) (2023-04 – 2023-08)

• Delivered high-acuity patient care in a fast-paced surgical ICU setting
• Supported infection prevention protocols and team training
• Participated in audits, care bundles, and patient safety rounds

Professional Nurse – Frail Care Unit (Contract) at Oasis Care Centre (2022-10 – 2022-11)

• Provided short-term cover in a frail care environment
• Ensured continuity of care for elderly patients with chronic conditions

Professional Nurse – Intensive Care Unit at Mediclinic Durbanville (2019-06 – 2022-04)

• Worked full-time in the ICU managing ventilated and high-dependency patients
• Acted as Link Nurse for Infection Control and completed mentorship of junior staff
• Completed all ICU clinical procedures and professional development courses

Enrolled Nurse – Emergency Centre at Mediclinic Durbanville (2016-06 – 2017-05)

• Supported emergency care team in a high-pressure setting
• Gained foundational experience in triage, trauma care, and acute interventions

Diploma in General Nursing – Mediclinic