Prevention of Infection - Week 1: Introduction to the Unit

Flashcards testing core definitions, unit aims, outcomes, assessment structure, and examples from Week 1 of Prevention of Infection.

What are the main objectives of the Prevention of Infection unit?

To understand and apply the essential elements of standard infection control precautions, use gained knowledge to assess risk in practice, and work competently to reduce infection risk for service users, colleagues, and self.

How long is each weekly class expected to last?

Two hours.

What is the definition of an infection?

An infection is the state or process of a microorganism (such as bacteria, a virus, a fungus, or a parasite) invading and multiplying in the body of a host.

What is a pathogen?

A pathogen is a microorganism (such as bacteria, virus, fungus, or parasite) that may cause disease by entering a host's body, multiplying, and disrupting normal biological activities.

What is the distinction between signs and symptoms?

Signs are objective evidence that can be seen (e.g., a red spot on skin or a fever reading on a thermometer), whereas symptoms are subjective descriptions of how a person feels (e.g., pain or nausea).

What are bacteria?

Microscopic, single-celled organisms that exist in millions in every environment. Most bacteria are useful or harmless, but some can cause illness.

What examples of bacterial conditions or organisms are listed in the notes?

E Coli, Conjunctivitis, and Meningitis.

What is a virus?

A sub-microscopic infectious agent that replicates only inside the living cells of an organism.

What examples of viruses are provided in the lecture notes?

Coronavirus, HIV, and Chicken pox.

What is Unit Outcome 1?

Describe each of the main groups of pathogenic organisms which currently cause disease in the U.K.

What is Unit Outcome 2?

Explain the entry of pathogens into the body and spread of infection.

What is Unit Outcome 3?

Explain how the spread of infection can be prevented.

What is required for the Week 8 assessment (Outcomes 1B, C and 3)?

An investigation submitted on TEAMs covering class learning and research on different illnesses and their effects on the body.

What are the rules and format for the Week 12 assessment (Outcomes 1a and 2)?

It is a 45-minute closed-book assessment where students answer a series of questions without notes.

What does the Week 15 assessment (Outcome 4) involve?

A practical assessment demonstrating a level of competency in a specific infection control skill learned in class.