Nosocomial Infections and Septicemia

This set of flashcards covers key concepts regarding nosocomial infections and septicemia, including definitions, prevention strategies, nursing interventions, and important statistics for nursing students.

What is a nosocomial infection?

An infection acquired during a hospital stay or healthcare visit that was not present or incubating at the time of admission.

What are common causes of Catheter-Associated Urinary Tract Infection (CAUTI)?

Prolonged catheter use, poor perineal care, kinked tubing, drainage bag above bladder, and dependent loops causing urine stagnation.

What are the signs of a Surgical Site Infection (SSI)?

Redness, warmth, swelling, purulent drainage, fever, and increased incision pain.

How can Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia (VAP) be prevented?

Keep the head of the bed at least 30 degrees, perform frequent oral care with chlorhexidine, suction as needed, and turn the patient every 2 hours.

What is the definition of septicemia?

Presence of bacteria or pathogens in the bloodstream, often following an infection.

What is the leading cause of death in ICU patients related to nosocomial infections?

Sepsis.

What are key statistics about nosocomial infections?

1 in 3 sepsis patients develops a nosocomial infection; 50% of HAIs are pulmonary-related.

What does the term 'sepsis' refer to?

Life-threatening organ dysfunction caused by a dysregulated immune response to infection.

How should hand hygiene be performed according to the Five Moments?

Before touching a patient, before aseptic procedure, after body fluid exposure, after touching a patient, and after touching surroundings.

What is the main prevention method for C. difficile infections?

Washing hands with soap and water; alcohol-based sanitizer does not kill spores.

What is the consequence of not treating septicemia?

It can progress to sepsis if untreated.

What nursing interventions are suggested for preventing HAIs?

Strict sterile dressing changes, daily review of catheter necessity, and early removal of invasive devices.

What is the purpose of antimicrobial stewardship?

To ensure the correct antibiotic, correct dose, correct duration, preventing resistance, and reducing C. difficile risk.

What is the progression of sepsis?

Local infection to septicemia to sepsis to septic shock and multi-organ failure.

What is the key nursing care point for a patient with C. difficile?

Implement contact precautions and monitor stool output.

What should be done immediately upon recognizing sepsis?

Administer early antibiotics within 1 hour.

What contributes significantly to morbidity and mortality in hospitalized patients?

Healthcare-Associated Infections (HAIs).

What are the nursing implications for a patient with a central line?

Strict sterile technique, daily assessments, and prompt removal when no longer needed.

What effect do nosocomial infections have on hospital costs?

They contribute to billions in healthcare costs annually.

What is the most important prevention method for HAIs?

Hand hygiene.

What should patients be educated about regarding infections?

Signs of infections and the importance of early reporting.