Infection Control

Question 1

What are pathogens?

Answer 1

Biological, infectious agents that cause disease or illness to their hosts

Question 2

What 3 elements does infection require?

Answer 2

• A source of the infectious agent
• A mode of transmission
• A susceptible host

Question 3

What are 3 sources of infectious agents?

Answer 3

• Patients
• Healthcare workers
• Visitors

Question 4

What are the main modes of transmission for infectious agents in healthcare settings?

Answer 4

• Contact (including bloodborne)
• Droplet (controlled by gravity)
• Airborne (not controlled by gravity, moves in airwaves)

Question 5

What is the difference between direct and indirect contact transmission?

Answer 5

Direct: Pathogens are transferred form one person to another
Indirect: Pathogens are transferred through a contaminated intermediate object or person

Question 6

When can droplet transmission occur?

Answer 6

When an infected person coughs, sneezes or talks and during certain procedures. Droplets can also be transmitted indirectly to mucosal surfaces, e.g. via hands

Question 7

How does airborne transmission occur?

Answer 7

Via particles containing pathogens that remain infectious over time and distance. The small particles can transmit infection into small airways of the respiratory tract

Question 8

When should frequently touched and general surfaces be cleaned?

Answer 8

Frequently touched: Clean with detergent solution at least daily, when visibly soiled and after every contamination
General surfaces: When visibly soiled and after every contamination

Question 9

What are the 5 moments for hand hygiene?

Answer 9

• Before touching a patient
• Before a procedure
• After a procedure or body fluid exposure risk
• After touching a patient
• After touching a patient’s surroundings