Infection Control Article

Question 1

Why is infection control important in veterinary clinics?

Answer 1

It prevents the spread of infectious diseases, ensures patient safety, and protects clinic staff and clients.

Question 2

What is the most crucial activity in controlling nosocomial infections?

Answer 2

Hand hygiene, including hand-washing and disinfection.

Question 3

When should hands be washed in a veterinary setting?

Answer 3

At the start and end of shifts, before and after eating, after handling animals, and before/after procedures.

Question 4

At what temperature should uniforms be washed?

Answer 4

At a minimum of 60°C to ensure effective disinfection.

Question 5

Why is a ‘bare below the elbow’ policy recommended?

Answer 5

To reduce the risk of contamination from jewelry and artificial nails, ensuring proper hand hygiene.

Question 6

When should disposable gloves be worn?

Answer 6

During procedures involving contact with bodily fluids, infected wounds, and suspected contagious patients.

Question 7

How often should disposable gloves be changed?

Answer 7

Between patients, when moving between body sites on the same patient, and when gloves become soiled.

Question 8

Why should sterile gloves be worn during surgery?

Answer 8

To maintain asepsis and reduce the risk of infection during invasive procedures.

Question 9

What types of PPE are recommended for high-risk patients?

Answer 9

Disposable gowns, shoe covers, masks, and eye protection for handling infectious or contagious patients.

Question 10

What is the purpose of separate surgical attire?

Answer 10

To reduce cross-contamination and maintain a sterile environment in the operating area.

Question 11

How should surgical procedures be organized based on cleanliness?

Answer 11

In order: clean, clean-contaminated, contaminated, and dirty.

Question 12

Why is pre-operative bathing recommended for certain surgeries?

Answer 12

It removes skin scales and dirt, reducing the risk of infection, especially in orthopedic surgeries.

Question 13

How should fur be clipped for surgery?

Answer 13

Using a clean, sharp, and lubricated blade to avoid skin damage and contamination.

Question 14

Why should the surgical area be free of non-essential items?

Answer 14

To simplify cleaning, reduce contamination, and maintain sterility.

Question 15

What are key characteristics of the ideal hospital environment?

Answer 15

Clean, easy to maintain, free of clutter, and with essential items stored in closed cabinets.

Question 16

Why should kennels not face each other?

Answer 16

To reduce the transmission of airborne pathogens and minimize stress for animals.

Question 17

What should the isolation area contain?

Answer 17

Separate bedding, food, bowls, and commonly used equipment to prevent cross-contamination.

Question 18

Why are alcohol hand gels used for hand disinfection?

Answer 18

They reduce bacterial load on hands and should be at least 70-90% alcohol for effectiveness.

Question 19

Why is it essential to classify patients by infection risk?

Answer 19

To determine appropriate housing, isolation needs, and prevent infection spread within the clinic.

Question 20

What should be done after handling a high-risk patient?

Answer 20

Perform thorough hand hygiene, change gloves, and disinfect any equipment used.

Question 21

How can infection risk be minimized in the hospital ward?

Answer 21

By regularly cleaning, using PPE, and having designated equipment for each area.

Question 22

What is the role of barrier nursing?

Answer 22

To protect patients and staff by using strict hygiene measures when dealing with infectious diseases.

Question 23

Why is a ‘deep clean’ important after patient discharge?

Answer 23

It removes any lingering pathogens, reducing the risk of infection for the next patient.

Question 24

What is a ‘traffic-light’ system in infection control?

Answer 24

It classifies patients by infection risk: green (low risk), orange (moderate risk), and red (high risk).

Question 25

How should a suspected infection be confirmed before moving a patient to isolation?

Answer 25

Through clinical signs and diagnostic tests, to ensure appropriate containment measures.

Question 26

What should be done if a veterinary clinic has a high rate of infections?

Answer 26

Conduct an infection control audit to identify and address problem areas.

Question 27

What is the purpose of a biosecurity policy?

Answer 27

It outlines protocols to prevent infection spread and manage infectious cases within the clinic.

Question 28

Why should environmental cultures be performed?

Answer 28

They help identify potential sources of contamination, especially during outbreaks.

Question 29

What items should be readily available in each hospital area?

Answer 29

PPE and hand hygiene stations to ensure quick access for infection prevention.

Question 30

What are ‘reverse barrier nursing’ practices?

Answer 30

They protect vulnerable patients from contracting infections rather than spreading them.

Question 31

How can the veterinary nurse contribute to infection control?

Answer 31

By implementing protocols, ensuring cleanliness, and educating the clinic team on hygiene practices.

Question 32

Why is it important to monitor wound infections post-surgery?

Answer 32

To detect infection trends and improve surgical hygiene and patient outcomes.

Question 33

What is the role of the infection control officer?

Answer 33

To oversee infection control practices, monitor hygiene, and address any concerns related to infections.

Question 34

How can surgical instruments be organized to improve infection control?

Answer 34

Only essential tools should be kept in the surgery room to avoid contamination.

Question 35

What is the best method for disinfecting high-touch surfaces?

Answer 35

Using alcohol-based disinfectants with a minimum of 70% alcohol.

Question 36

How should patient bedding be handled in isolation?

Answer 36

Use separate bedding for each isolated patient and launder at high temperatures.

Question 37

Why are color-coded cleaning tools recommended?

Answer 37

To prevent cross-contamination by designating tools for specific areas like isolation or common wards.

Question 38

What type of disinfectant is best for skin preparation?

Answer 38

Chlorhexidine gluconate, povidone iodine, or alcohols based on the individual patient’s needs.

Question 39

Why should practice hygiene audits be conducted regularly?

Answer 39

They help identify and resolve hygiene issues, reducing the risk of infections.

Question 40

How can stress for cats in isolation be minimized?

Answer 40

By using fragrance-free disinfectants, avoiding strong odors, and using physical barriers in kennels.