Unit 1: Infection Control & Safety in Healthcare Practice Flashcards

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering the components of the chain of infection, safety precautions, PPE protocols, OSHA standards, and body mechanics.

Infectious Agent

The first link in the chain of infection.

Reservoir

A place where germs live and grow.

Portal of Exit

The way a pathogen leaves the body.

Mode of Transmission

The method by which germs spread from person to person.

Portal of Entry

The way germs enter the body.

Susceptible Host

A person with a weakened immune system.

Handwashing

The best way to break the chain of infection.

Standard Precautions

Universal infection control measures applied to all patient care regardless of suspected or confirmed infection status.

Gloves

Personal protective equipment that helps break the mode of transmission link in the chain of infection.

Contact Precautions

Infection control measures that require wearing a gown and gloves.

Droplet Precautions

Precautions commonly used for patients with illnesses spread through respiratory droplets.

Airborne Precautions

Precautions that require the use of an N95 respirator mask.

PPE

Acronym for Personal Protective Equipment.

20 Seconds

The duration one should wash their hands for effective hygiene.

Downward Flow

The direction water should flow when rinsing off during handwashing.

OSHA

Acronym for Occupational Safety and Health Administration.

SDS

Acronym for Safety Data Sheet, which provides information on chemical products and safety procedures.

RACE

Fire safety acronym standing for Rescue, Alarm, Confine, Extinguish.

PASS

Fire extinguisher acronym standing for Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep.

Sharps Container

The proper disposal method for used needles.

Red Biohazard Bag

The container used for disposing of items contaminated with blood or body fluids.

Leg Muscles

The body part that should do most of the work when lifting objects properly.

Bending at the Knees and Hips

The proper technique for lifting, rather than bending at the waist.

Gait Belt

A safety device placed around the patient's waist to assist with transfers and mobility.

2 Inches

The required distance the top of a crutch should be below the armpit for proper use.