Unit 3 - Infection Control Flashcards
Name the components of the chain of infection
Infectious agent reservoir portal of exit mode of transmission portal of entry host
What is a microorganism?
infection or etiological agent
4 factors microorganisms depend on to cause disease
- sufficient # of organism
- virulence (strength & type of organism)
- entry & survival in host
- Susceptibility of host
Nosocomial
= health-care associated infections (MRSA)
Reservior
place where pathogens are stored
What do pathogens need to survive?
Food; O2 levels (aerobic vs anaerobic); H2O; temp; pH; and little light.
What can be portals of exit?
Body openings (mouth, rectum, urethra, etc.) Breaks in skin or mucous membranes
4 modes of transporation
1. contact direct (touching, kissing) indirect (stethoscope, door handle) droplet (lands on surface) 2. Air 3. Vehicles (IV fluids, water) 4. Vectors --> animals/ insects (Lymes disease, West Nile
List ways to reduce transmission
- Hand Hygiene
- Don’t share equipment
- Careful w/ soiled items
- PPE
Moments for Hand hygiene
b/f touching pt b/f cleaning/ aseptic procedure After body fluid exposure After touching pt After touching pt’s surroundings
Host
Can enhance resistance
Degree of resistance to a pathogen.
Resistance increased by immunizations & exposure to disease.
Portal of entry
Body openings (mouth, rectum, urethra, etc.)
Breaks in skin or mucous membranes
The more devices, the more portals
Defenses to prevent infection
Normal Flora Body defense mechanisms – skin, tears, cilia, urine, stomach acid, etc. Drink H2O (flush system out!) Inflammation = protective vascular rxn S+S = redness, pain, heat, and swelling Immune system
Inflammatory response
- Vascular and cellular responses
- Inflammatory exudate
- Tissue repair
Serous exudate
Clean
sanguineous exudate
Blood
Purulent exudate
pus
Medical Asepsis
Clean technique
Asepsis
the absence of bacteria, viruses, & other microorganisms.
Which of the following nursing measures is appropriate in breaking a link in the chain of infection?
A. Cover mouth and nose when sneezing.
B. Place contaminated linens in a paper bag.
C. Use personal protective equipment (PPE) sparingly.
D. Wear gloves at all times.
A. Cover mouth and nose when sneezing.