Chapter 66: Infectious Diseases

What's the nurse's main job in preventing infection?

Stop germs from spreading and catch infections early

How do nurses prevent CAUTIs?

• Check daily if the catheter is still needed (take it out ASAP).

• Put in catheters very cleanly (sterile technique).

• Clean the patient's private area daily.

• Keep the urine bag below the bladder and off the floor (so urine doesn't flow back).

• Empty the urine bag often so it doesn't get too full.

What are the signs of a CAUTI?

Fever, lower belly pain, cloudy/smelly urine, blood in urine, and confusion (especially in older people).

What makes someone more likely to get a CAUTI?

The longer a urinary catheter stays in, the higher the risk (risk goes up 5% each day).

What does CAUTI stand for?

Catheter-Associated Urinary Tract Infection. It's the most common infection related to medical devices.

What are the main signs of C. diff?

Stomach cramps and very watery diarrhea.

What is the most common overall HAI?

Clostridioides difficile (C. diff).

What are HAIs?

Infections patients get while in the hospital.

What should nurses teach patients about infection?

How to wash hands, take medicines correctly, stay home when sick, and get recommended vaccines.

How do nurses check for infection?

Ask about symptoms (fever, cough, pain) and do a physical check (look at skin, listen to lungs, check urine).

How do nurses stop infection spread?

Wash hands a lot, wear the right gear (PPE), follow isolation rules, clean the environment, and make sure patients get their vaccines.

Who is more likely to get infections?

Older adults, people with weak immune systems (e.g., chemo patients), people with long-term illnesses (e.g., diabetes), and patients with medical devices (like IVs or catheters).

What blood tests do nurses check for infection?

White blood cell count (CBC), blood cultures (for germs in blood), and urinalysis (for UTIs)

What are Enteric Precautions (for C. diff)?

A type of contact precaution. Always use soap and water for handwashing (not just sanitizer), and clean with bleach

When do you use Contact Precautions (e.g., MRSA)?

When germs spread by touch (direct or surfaces). Wear a gown and gloves.

When do you use Airborne Precautions (e.g., TB)?

When tiny germs float in the air. Use a special negative pressure room and wear an N-95 mask.

When do you use Droplet Precautions (e.g., flu)?

When germs spread through coughs/sneezes. Wear a surgical mask and use a private room.

What are the three types of Transmission-Based Precautions?

Airborne, Droplet, and Contact.

What are the main parts of Standard Precautions (for everyone)?

Wash hands, wear gloves when needed, handle equipment safely, keep areas clean, prevent needle sticks, and put patients in the right rooms.

What are the two main types of precautions?

• Standard Precautions: Basic rules for every patient.

• Transmission-Based Precautions: Extra rules for specific infections.