Infection Control Flashcards
HAI
(Healthcare Associated Infection); 5th leading cause of death in hospital
*Nosocomial
= infexn that develops in patient during
stay at healthcare facility or after discharge
–Increases:
Length of stay
HC expenditure
Costs - medicare will not reimburse
Chain of Infection
- Reservoir (host)
- Method of exit
- Method of transmission
- Method of entry into new host
- Susceptible host
- Infexn in new host
Populations at Risk for Infection
- HIV
- Stem-cell / organ transplant
- Cystic fibrosis
Cystic Fibrosis
Disease that causes thick, sticky mucus buildup in lungs and digestive tract
Infection:
Modes of Transmission
Contact/Direct
Indirect
Droplet
Airborne
Respiratory Hygiene
Cover nose and mouth
Dispose of tissues
Wash/rub hands
Wipe with sleeve/arm
C. diff
(Clostridium difficile)
Spore-forming anaerobic bacillus that causes diarrhea
MDROs
(Multidrug-Resistant Organisms)
Microorganisms resistant to one or more classes of antimicrobial agents
- Pts more susceptible if:
- Geriatric
- Extended antibiotic use
- Urinary catheter in place - MRSA
- VRE
MRSA
(Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus Aureus)
Staph bacteria resistant to beta-lactams
VRE
(Vancomycin-resistant enterococci)
PPE
(Personal protective equipment)
= barriers used to protect body from infectious
agents
Standard Precautions
Infection control designed to protect pts and clinicians in hospital
- Barriers
- Hand hygiene
- Sharps
- Eating/drinking restrictions
Transmission-Based Precautions
Infection control designed to protect person/object from contamination by transmissable pathogens
- Contact (Direct/Indirect)
- Droplet
- Airborne
- Common vehicle (food/water/meds)
- Vector-borne
OSHA
Occupational Safety and Health Administration
Nosocomial
Pertaining only to infections originating in the hospital
