Infection Prevention + Control

Question 1

What is the difference between colonisation and infection?

Answer 1

colonisation = the presence and multiplication of bacteria without tissue invasion or damage

infection = entry and multiplication in tissues causing damage

Question 2

Factors influencing host susceptibility for infection?

Answer 2

1. Natural barriers (skin, stomach acid, mucus) compromised
2. Immunocompromised
3. Multiple hospital admissions
4. Antibiotic use

Question 3

Define a Health Care Associated Infection (HCAI) ?

Answer 3

infection that occurs more than 48 HOURS after admission to hospital

OR

infection that occurs more than 10 DAYS after discharge from hospital

OR

infection that occurs within 72 HOURS of an outpatient procedure

Question 4

Which antibiotic can no longer be used to treat MRSA? and which would you use instead?

Answer 4

can’t use: Flucloxacillin

instead: Vancomycin

Question 5

Which antibiotic can no longer be used to treat ESBLs (e.coli)?

Answer 5

Ceftriaxone