Infection Prevention & Control: CNA Key Concepts and Procedures

What does infection prevention mean?

Stopping germs from spreading and causing disease.

Which link in the chain of infection is broken by wearing gloves?

Mode of transmission (stops germs from spreading by contact).

Why are elderly people at higher risk for infection?

Weaker immune systems and more health problems.

Under Standard Precautions, what substances are considered body fluids?

Blood and most body fluids.

On whom should Standard Precautions be practiced?

All residents.

What is the single most important way to prevent disease spread?

Handwashing.

What is hand hygiene?

Cleaning hands with soap and water or alcohol hand rub.

How long should hands be rubbed when washing?

20 seconds.

How many times can disposable gloves be worn?

Once.

What order should PPE be put on and removed?

Put on before contact and remove after care following facility guidelines.

What is sterilization?

Destroying all microorganisms including spores.

What is disinfection?

Destroying most pathogens but not all.

How should soiled linen be carried?

Away from your uniform.

Before cleaning a spill of blood or body fluids, what should an NA do?

Apply disinfectant.

If an NA must sneeze without a tissue, where should she sneeze?

Into the elbow or upper sleeve.

How are bloodborne diseases transmitted?

When infected blood enters the bloodstream.

What is the most common way bloodborne diseases spread in healthcare?

Needlestick injuries.

What does HIV do to the immune system?

It weakens the immune system.

What is hepatitis?

Inflammation of the liver.

How is hepatitis B spread?

Through infected blood or body fluids.

What is an exposure control plan?

A plan to reduce employee exposure to infectious materials.

Who is more likely to develop tuberculosis?

People with weakened immune systems.

How is COVID-19 transmitted?

Respiratory droplets and airborne particles.

What are multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs)?

Germs resistant to multiple antibiotics.

One of the best ways to prevent MRSA and VRE?

Frequent handwashing.

Two ways to prevent C. difficile?

Handwashing and proper waste handling.

What must employers provide regarding hepatitis B vaccination?

Free hepatitis B vaccine for healthcare workers.