Infection Control and Nursing Practice Lecture Notes

This set covers infection basics, asepsis, the chain of infection, healthcare-associated infections (HAIs), precautions, PPE, and the roles of regulatory organizations.

What is the definition of colonization in the context of infection?

Microorganisms are present but are NOT causing illness.

What is the clinical difference between medical asepsis and surgical asepsis?

Medical asepsis (Clean Technique) reduces the number and spread of microorganisms, while surgical asepsis (Sterile Technique) eliminates ALL microorganisms.

List the six links in the Chain of Infection in the correct order.

1. Infectious Agent, 2. Reservoir, 3. Portal of Exit, 4. Mode of Transmission, 5. Portal of Entry, 6. Susceptible Host.

What are three examples of a Reservoir in the Chain of Infection?

Humans, water, food, equipment, and animals.

What is the difference between direct and indirect contact transmission?

Direct contact is person-to-person touching, while indirect contact involves a contaminated object, also known as a fomite.

How is droplet transmission distinguished from airborne transmission?

Droplet transmission involves large respiratory droplets that usually travel 3–6 feet, whereas airborne transmission involve tiny particles suspended in the air.

Which stage of infection occurs when a person begins to experience mild, non-specific symptoms?

The Prodromal stage.

What are the systemic signs of an infection?

Fever, fatigue, enlarged lymph nodes, and elevated white blood cell counts (WBCs).

What does the acronym CAUTI stand for?

Catheter-associated urinary tract infection.

When is it mandatory to use soap and water for hand hygiene instead of alcohol-based hand rub?

When hands are visibly dirty, after caring for a patient with C. diff, or after using the restroom.

What common infections require the use of Contact Precautions?

MRSA, VRE, and C. diff.

What specific PPE and room requirements are needed for Airborne Precautions?

An N95 respirator and a negative-pressure room.

What is the correct order for donning PPE?

1. Gown, 2. Mask, 3. Goggles/face shield, 4. Gloves.

According to sterile technique rules, what is the status of the 1-inch border of a sterile field?

The 1-inch border is considered contaminated.

What action should a nurse take if they are unsure if a sterile field has been contaminated?

They must consider it contaminated.

What are the immediate steps to take after a needle-stick injury?

1. Wash the area, 2. Report it immediately, 3. Follow the exposure protocol.

What is a key consideration when assessing an older adult for infection?

Older adults may NOT show a fever even when an infection is present.

How do the roles of the CDC and OSHA differ regarding infection control?

The CDC focuses on infection-control guidelines and HAI prevention, while OSHA focuses on protecting health care workers through standards like the bloodborne pathogen standard.

Which organization is responsible for hospital accreditation and patient safety standards?

The Joint Commission.

Which agency regulates the use of disinfectants and environmental safety?

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).