Infection And Antibiotics Flashcards
What are the six links in the chain of infection?
Infectious agent, Reservoir, Portal of exit, Mode of transmission, Portal of entry, Susceptible host
What are the standard precautions for all patients?
Hand hygiene, gloves when touching body fluids, PPE as needed, respiratory hygiene, safe injection practices, proper handling of contaminated items
What type of precaution is used for MRSA?
Contact precautions (gloves, gown, dedicated equipment)
What is the correct hand hygiene for C. difficile?
Wash hands with soap and water — alcohol-based sanitizers are not effective
What are local signs of infection?
Redness, warmth, swelling, pain/tenderness, loss of function, exudate
What stage of infection is most contagious?
Prodromal stage
What’s included in a protective environment?
Private room, positive airflow (12+ exchanges/hr), HEPA filter, mask for client outside room
Which antibiotics inhibit cell wall synthesis?
Penicillins, Cephalosporins, Carbapenems, Monobactams, Vancomycin
Which antibiotics inhibit protein synthesis?
Tetracyclines, Macrolides, Aminoglycosides
Which antibiotics affect DNA replication?
Fluoroquinolones (e.g., ciprofloxacin)
What side effect is unique to tetracyclines?
Tooth discoloration in kids under 8, photosensitivity, esophageal ulcers
What’s a major risk of gentamicin?
Ototoxicity and nephrotoxicity — monitor BUN, creatinine, and trough levels
What is Red Man Syndrome?
Flushing, rash, hypotension from rapid vancomycin infusion — prevent by infusing over at least 60 minutes
What is the teaching for ciprofloxacin?
Avoid dairy/calcium near doses, photosensitivity risk, tendon rupture (rare), increase fluids
Which antibiotic can cause Stevens-Johnson syndrome?
Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim)
What antibiotic only works in the urinary tract and causes rust-colored urine?
Nitrofurantoin (Macrodantin)
