Infection Control Flashcards
inherent infection
native to host
contagious infection
from someone or something else, not native to host
localized infection
affects one area
systemic infection
affects whole body
primary infection
root cause of a health problem, not because of another infection
secondary infection
occurs because of another infection, or something else
exogenous infection
from organism outside of us - exterior
endogenous infection
lives inside of us
infection
when a pathogen invades tissues and begins multiplying within a host
colonization
presence of mutiplication of microorganisms within a host but without tissue invasion or damage - without infection
communicable disease
that which can be transmitted from one individual to another, ex: COVID
symptomatic infection
when pathogens multiply and cause signs and symptoms of disease
asymptomatic infection
when pathogens multiply but no clinical signs and symptoms are present
virulence
ability to produce disease - very virulent = good at causing disease
what are the 5 prevention and control techniques
hand hygiene
barrier techniques
antiseptics/disinfectants (antiseptics on skin, disinfectant on inanimate objects)
immunizations/medications
conscientious patient care
hand hygiene
single most important action for preventing infection, friction is essential action
why is hand hygiene important
the longer the duration of care without hand hygiene, the higher the degree of contamination (colonization) on the healthcare worker’s hands
