Infection Flashcards
What does contamination mean?
presence of microbes on wound surface but no issues caused, wound healing should occur normal
What is colonization?
presence of replicating microbes but no damage and wound healing should still occur
What is critical colonization
microbes increase and begin to disrupt wound healing, classic infected signs may be absent, topical dressings indicated
What is an infection?
microbes affect wound healing and healthy tissue, pts with poor immune system may need systemic antibiotic as infection can spread throughout body
What are signs an symptoms of infection?
changes in wound draining, edema, warmth, increased pain (diabetes pts), confusion, fever, fatigue, N/V, WBC count
What are signs and symptoms in a non healing wound?
change of quality of granulation, no measurable wound contraction in 204 weeks, cobblestone appearance, similar to acute just harder to see
What is important to remember about infection sign and symptoms?
they are usually disproportionate to size of wound and are excessive
What will drainage look like in infected wound?
copious amount, thick purulent, may small be green or blue
What will decline in wound status look like in infected wounds?
decrease granulation, , color change
What is a silent infection?
pts who are immunocompromised or PAD are at greater risk bc signs are harder to see
check for systemic signs if you suspect infxn
What are bio films?
communities of micro organisms that attach to a wound surface
protects wound from antibiotics, adversely affects wound healing
What percent of chronic wounds have bio films?
60%
What is gold standard for diagnosing wound infections?
tissue biopsy, use swabs to get a culture
What are two types of MRSA?
nosocomial and community acquired
How long can MRSA live on surfaces?
for hours to days
What are examples of anti microbial therapy?
bacitracin, impregnated dressings
What are examples of antiseptic agents?
acetic acid, Dakins, Hydrogen peroxide can ONLY be used for surgery, intact skin or hand washing
Why is silver used for some infections?
antimicrobial in ionic state, can be effective against MRSA and VRE
What are precautions when using silver?
use sparingly as it can become toxic, don’t use with estim, remove before MRI
can’t use with saline as it deactivates silver
