Week 3 - Chapter 24: Sepsis and Infection Control

These flashcards cover the key concepts from Chapter 24 regarding sepsis and infection control relevant for nursing practice.

What is the most common infection-causing agent in healthcare institutions?

Bacteria

What are the six components of the infection cycle?

Infectious agent, reservoir, portal of exit, means of transmission, portal of entry, susceptible host.

What piece of personal protective equipment should be worn when dealing with a C. Diff patient?

Gown and gloves.

Which virus is the smallest of all microorganisms?

Virus.

What are the cardinal signs of acute infection?

Redness, heat, swelling, pain, loss of function.

What must be done to kill C. Diff spores?

Soap and water hand washing.

What are the four categories responsible for the majority of hospital-acquired infections (HAIs)?

CAUTIs, SSIs, CLABSIs, VAP.

What is the incubation period in the context of infection?

The period between the pathogenic invasion of the body and the appearance of infection symptoms.

What is the primary method to prevent infection in healthcare settings?

Hand hygiene.

What is the definition of a reservoir in the infection cycle?

A natural habitat where an organism grows and multiplies.

What are common portals of exit for pathogens?

Respiratory, gastrointestinal, genitourinary tracts, breaks in the skin, blood.

What does VRE stand for and why is it significant?

Vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus; it's a problem because vancomycin is a commonly used antibiotic.

What are some factors that affect a host's susceptibility to infection?

Intact skin, normal pH levels, immune system health, age, nutrition, stress.

What is the prodromal stage of infection?

When a person is most infectious but symptoms are vague.

What is the full stage of illness?

The period when specific signs and symptoms of the disease are present.

What hand hygiene moment occurs after touching a patient?

You should wash your hands.

How is the term 'aseptic technique' defined?

Activities to prevent or break the chain of infection.

What does 'indirect contact transmission' refer to?

Contact with a fomite or vector, rather than direct contact with the infected person.

What percentage of the normal white blood cell count is considered elevated?

Above 10,000 cells/mm³.

What are non-antimicrobial agents adequate for routine mechanical cleansing of the hands?

True; they can be considered adequate for cleaning hands.

What is the time frame for the convalescent period of infection?

The time of recovery from the infection.