Infection 9 - Hospital Acquired Infections

Question 1

What are the 4 P’s of infection prevention + control?

Answer 1

1) Pathogen - e.g.: virulence factors + ecological interactions w/other bacteria + antibiotics
2) Patient - general and specific risk factors, and their interactions with other patients, healthcare workers + visitors
3) Practice - activity of healthcare workers, policies + leadership
4) Place - the healthcare environment and variable features

Question 2

What patient interventions can be placed to prevent infections?

Answer 2

General = smoking, nutrition, antimicrobial prophylaxis, skin preparation + hygiene.

Specific = MRSA screens, disinfectant body wash.

Physical barriers - isolation of infection patients + protection of susceptible patients

Question 3

What healthcare worker interventions can be used to prevent infections?

Answer 3

• Good practice - e.g.: clinical techniques, hand hygiene + PPE

Question 4

What environmental interventions can be used to prevent infections?

Answer 4

• Cleaning with disinfectants, steam cleaning etc
• Sterilisation/decontamination of medical devices
• Appropriate kitchen/food facilities