Asepsis and Infection Flashcards
Pathogens
disease producing microorganisms
infection
a disease state that results from the presence of pathogens in or on the body
Cocci
spherical
Bacilli
rod shaped
Spirochetes
corkscrew shaped
Stages of Infection
Incubation period
Prodromal Stage
Full stage illness
Convalescent period
Incubation period
Interval between the pathogens invasion of the body and the appearance of symptoms of infection. During this stage the organisms are growing and multiplying
Prodromal stage
A person is most infectious during the prodromal stage. This period last from several hours to several days. During this phase, the patient often does not realize that he or she is contagious. As a result the infection spreads
Full stage of illness
The presence of specific sign and symptoms indicates the full stage of illness
Convalescent period
The recovery period from the infection
One of the first line of defense against infection is the
body’s normal flora
Inflammation helps the body to
neutralize, control,or eliminate the offending agent and to prepare the site for repair.
The cardinal signs of acute infection are
redness, heat, swelling, pain, and loss of function and usually appear at the site of injury or inflammation
Medical asepsis
clean technique, involves procedures and practices that reduce the number and transfer of pathogens
Surgical asepsis
sterile technique, includes practices used to render and keep objects and areas free from microorganisms.
