Chapter 27 Asepsis and Infection Control Flashcards
Infection
a disease state that results from the presence of pathogens nor on the body
Pathogens
disease producing microorganisms
Bacteria
the most significant and most commonly observed infection-causing agents in healthcare institutions
Categories of bacteria
spherical (cocci), rod shaped (bacilli), corkscrew shaped (spirochetes)
Gram positive or gram negative-based on reaction to gram stain
Aerobic or anaerobic-based on need for oxygen
Virus
smallest of all microorganisms
Fungi
plantlike organisms present in air, soil and water
Reservoir
natural habitat of organism
Portal of exit
point of escape for the organism
Means of transmission
Direct contact, indirect contact, airborne route
Portal of entry
point at which organisms enter a new host
Susceptible Host
must overcome resistance mounted by host defenses
Factors affecting an organisms potential to produce disease
Number of organisms, Virulence, Competence of persons immune system, Length of intimacy of contact between person and microorganism
Number of organisms
the more organisms the more likely to get sick
Virulence
ability to produce disease
Stages of Infection
Incubation period, prodromal stage, Acute, convalescent period
Incubation period
organisms growing and multiplying
Prodromal stage
person is most infectious, vague and nonspecific signs of disease
Acute
Full stage of illness- presence of specific signs and symptoms of disease
Convalescent period
recovery from the infection
Bodys defense against infection
Bodys normal flora, Imflammatory response- ( Vascular stage, cellular stage), Immune response
Vascular stage
cardinal signs of infection: redness, heat, swelling, pain, loss of functon
Asepsis
without infection
Sepsis
with infection
Aseptic Technique
Includes all activities to prevent or break the chain of infection
Includes two types: Medical asepsis and surgical asepsis
Medical asepsis
clean technique
Surgical asepsis
sterile technique
Used in operating room, labor and delivery areas
Ex: insertion of urinary catheter, sterile dressing changes, or preparing and injecting medicine
Bacterial Flora
Transient and resident
Transient
attached loosely on skin, removed with relative ease
Resident
found in creases in skin, requires friction with brush to remove
Nosocomial
originates or takes place in the hospital