Medical Asepsis and Infection Control - CH 14 Flashcards
Microorganisms
Minuscule living bodies that cannot be seen without a microscope
Pathogens
Microorganisms that cause infections in humans
Normal Flora
The microorganisms that live in and on the human body and perform functions needed to protect us from harmful pathogens or break down food
Types of pathogens:
-Bacteria
-Viruses
-Protozoa
-Fungi
-Helminths
Bacteria
One celled microorganisms found virtually everywhere, including in the human body
Viruses
Not made up on individual cells, but are tiny parasites that live inside the cells of the host and reproduce there
Protozoa
Single celled animals that live in water
Fungi
May be made up of one or more cells
Helminths
Parasitic worms that can inhabit the digestive tract of humans
Chain of infection:
-Portal of entry
-Mode of transmission
-Portal of exit
-Reservoir
-Infectious agent
-Susceptible host
Health-care associated infection
Infection that is acquired while the patient is being cared for in any health-care setting.
Primary Infection
Initial infection caused by one pathogen only
Secondary Infection
Caused by a second, different pathogen
Localized Infection
Infection that is in one part of the body
Systemic Infection
When the infection spreads to other parts of the body through the blood stream
Septicemia
When microorganisms are present and multiplying in the blood
Primary defenses
Body systems or portions of them that block or trap invading pathogens
Skin as a primary defense
Protects body from microbes that would cause disease in subcutaneous or deeper tissue
Mucous membranes as a primary defense
The membranes produce sticky mucus that traps invading pathogens
GI system as a primary defense
Mouth provides entry into the GI system and contains bacteria/saliva contains enzymes that help remove microorganisms
Secondary Defense
Second line of defense occurs at the cellular level in response to toxins that are secreted by invading pathogens
Inflammatory process
WBC release histamine and other chemicals which cause blood vessels near to injury to dilate. Causes redness/warmth at injury.
Elevated Temperature
Body responds to pathogens by creating a hostile environment. Increasing the body temperature so that it is too warm for most pathogens to live or multiply
Complement Cascade
When invading pathogens are detected, complement is release. These specialized proteins attack the pathogen by releasing chemicals that make their cell membranes rupture
