Nursing Fundamentals: Infection Control & Vital Signs Study Guide

Flashcards covering key concepts in Infection Control and Vital Signs important for Nursing Fundamentals.

Pathogen

A microorganism that can cause disease.

Virulence

The ability of a pathogen to invade and injure a host.

Phagocytes

Immune cells like macrophages and neutrophils that engulf and destroy pathogens.

Active Immunity

Immunity that develops when the body produces its own antibodies through natural infection or vaccination.

Passive Immunity

Immunity acquired by receiving pre-formed antibodies from another source, such as maternal antibodies.

Cardinal Signs of Infection

The five local signs of infection: heat, redness, swelling, pain, and loss of function.

Local Infection

Infection confined to a specific area of the body.

Systemic Infection

Infection that spreads throughout the body, often characterized by symptoms like fever and fatigue.

Chain of Infection

The sequence of six links that must be broken to prevent infection: causative agent, reservoir, portal of exit, mode of transmission, portal of entry, and susceptible host.

Standard Precautions

Minimum infection control practices that apply to all patients regardless of infection status.

Medical Asepsis

A cleaning technique aimed at reducing the number of disease-causing microorganisms.

Surgical Asepsis

A sterile technique aimed at eliminating all microorganisms.

Healthcare-Associated Infections (HAIs)

Infections acquired in a healthcare setting.

Centralline-Associated Bloodstream Infections (CLABSIs)

Infections related to the presence of central lines.

Vital Signs

Clinical measurements that provide information about bodily functions, including temperature, pulse, respiration, and blood pressure.

Tachycardia

An abnormally rapid heart rate, generally above 100 bpm.

Bradycardia

An abnormally slow heart rate, usually below 60 bpm.

Hypertension

High blood pressure, with classifications above 130/80 mmHg.

Hypotension

Low blood pressure, considered as less than 90/60 mmHg.

Pulse Oximetry

A noninvasive method to measure the oxygen saturation of arterial blood.

Apical Pulse

The heartbeat measured at the apex of the heart, typically at the 5th intercostal space.

End-of-life Care

Caring for patients in their advanced stages of illness, focusing on comfort and quality of life.

Temperature Measurement Sites

Locations on the body where temperature can be accurately assessed.