Exam Preparation Notes - Nosocomial Infections and Infection Control

  • Exam Logistics:

    • Date: April 23, 09:30 - 11:30
    • Log in for microphone and camera check by 09:40
    • Visibility of the exam starting at 09:40, similar to past midterms
    • Covers mostly lectures 8, 9, and 10; about 10% from lectures 1-7

  • Nosocomial Infections (Hospital-acquired infections):

    • Definition: Infections not present or incubating at admission.
    • Common types: urinary tract, respiratory.
    • Skin as a protective barrier, susceptible after invasive procedures.
    • Preventable vs. Non-preventable:
    • Preventable: Hand hygiene, surgical counts, aseptic techniques.
    • Non-preventable: Immunocompromised patients, severe injuries.

  • Perception in Healthcare:

    • Trust based on appearance (e.g., professional dress).
    • Factors impacting trust and perception among patients.

  • Transmission and Control Measures:

    • Sources of nosocomial infections:
    • Environment, person-to-person, endogenous infections.
    • Efforts to control sources: Aseptic techniques, limiting entry of pathogens.
    • Chain of Infection Components:
    • Source (pathogen location)
    • Route (how it spreads to the patient)
    • Host (patient’s immune status, susceptibility)
    • General Infection Control Strategies:
    • Enhanced cleaning protocols.
    • Use of PPE.
    • Inform visitors of risks.

  • Universal Precautions (Routine Practices):

    • Treat every patient as potentially infectious.
    • Importance of hand hygiene and proper protective equipment.
    • Name changes over time reflecting changes in practice.

  • Infection Sources in Hospitals:

    • Vectors (living organisms, e.g., mosquitoes) vs. fomites (non-living objects)
    • Examples of vectors discussed (mosquitoes, rats, even humans).

  • Cleaning Methods:

    • Physical:
    • Heat: Autoclaving, boiling, dry heat
    • Radiation: Ultraviolet and gamma rays
    • Filtration for sensitive liquids.
    • Chemical:
    • Importance of germicide concentration, contact time, temperature, and target pathogens.
    • Fungal spores are more resistant than enveloped viruses.

  • Hand Hygiene Recommendations:

    • Effective against transient flora but not resident flora.
    • Alcohol-based sanitizers are 60-70% ethanol; require specific contact time.
    • Handwashing must be thorough and take around 20 seconds; avoid using alcohol-based sanitizers after food, as they do not remove allergens.
    • Emollients in sanitizers can trap bacteria if overused.

  • General Hygiene Practices:

    • Awareness of how bacteria transfer through skin, clothing, and washing practices.
    • Study findings show large gaps in proper hand hygiene compliance.

  • Study Strategies for Success:

    • Explore various learning methods (visual, auditory, etc.).
    • Highlight importance of understanding concepts before memorization, inclusive of systemic immune responses.
    • Analyze study habits, including group studies and pacing techniques (e.g., Pomodoro).
    • Regularly self-assess and adjust study strategies to aid retention and comprehension.

  • Understanding Complex Topics:

    • Emphasize the need for clear mind maps to visualize interconnectedness of material.

  • Final Advice for Exam Preparation:

    • Engage in practices that minimize fatigue, promote regular review across multiple subjects, and maintain a balance between study and lifestyle.
    • Approach the exam with confidence from adequate preparation and understanding of infection control and prevention strategies.