Nosocomial Infections: Foundations of Nursing

Vocabulary practice flashcards covering definitions, terminology, types, pathogens, transmission modes, and the chain of infection for nosocomial infections.

Nosocomial infection

An infection acquired by a patient in a hospital or other healthcare facility that was not present or incubating at the time of admission.

Hospital-acquired infection (HAI)

Also known as healthcare-associated infection; an infection typically becoming apparent $48\text{ hrs}$ or more after admission, which may also occur after discharge or in healthcare workers.

Cross-infection

Transmission of an infection from one person to another through direct or indirect contact.

Endogenous infection

An infection arising from the patient's own microorganisms (normal flora), especially when host immunity is weak.

Exogenous infection

An infection originating from an external source outside the patient's body.

Iatrogenic infection

An infection resulting directly from a healthcare procedure or medical intervention.

CAUTI

Catheter-associated urinary tract infection caused by catheter insertion or care; prevented by avoiding unnecessary catheterization, aseptic insertion, and a closed drainage system.

Surgical site infection (SSI)

An infection involving an incision or deeper tissue, presenting with redness, warmth, swelling, pain, and pus.

Hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP)

Pneumonia that was not present at admission, with risk factors including immobility, impaired consciousness, and mechanical ventilation.

Bloodstream infection (BSI)

An infection linked to IV lines or central lines, characterized clinically by fever, chills, and low blood pressure.

MRSA

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus; an antibiotic-resistant bacterium commonly causing wound and bloodstream infections.

Contact transmission

Mode of pathogen spread occurring either directly via physical contact or indirectly via contaminated hands, instruments, or surfaces (e.g., MRSA).

Droplet transmission

Spread of respiratory particles over short distances during coughing, sneezing, or talking (e.g., Influenza).

Airborne transmission

Mode of transmission where infectious particles remain suspended in the air (e.g., Tuberculosis, measles).

Common vehicle transmission

Transmission of an infectious agent via contaminated food, water, medications, or equipment.

Bloodborne transmission

Spread of pathogens through exposure to contaminated blood or unsafe sharps (e.g., Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C).

Chain of Infection

A six-step sequence comprising an infectious agent, reservoir, portal of exit, mode of transmission, portal of entry, and susceptible host.

Reservoir (Chain of Infection)

The habitat or environment in which an infectious agent lives, grows, and multiplies, such as a patient, healthcare worker, or the environment.

Portal of exit

The route by which an infectious agent leaves the reservoir, including respiratory secretions, blood, and wound drainage.

Portal of entry

The pathway through which an infectious agent gains entry into a host, such as the respiratory tract, urinary tract, or a wound.

Susceptible host

A person vulnerable to infection due to factors like extremes of age, weak immunity, malnutrition, chronic illness, or reduced mobility.

Community-acquired infection

An infection contracted outside a healthcare setting that is already present or incubating at the time of hospital admission (e.g., community-acquired pneumonia [CAP]).