Healthcare-Associated Infections (HAIs)
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Questions and Answers

What is the primary indicator used to determine if an infection is healthcare-associated?

  • Whether the infection requires antibiotics.
  • The severity of symptoms presented by the patient.
  • The type of pathogen identified in the infection.
  • The length of time the patient was in the facility before the infection appeared. (correct)

Which of the following is a consequence of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs)?

  • Prolonged hospital stays and increased human suffering. (correct)
  • Prolonged hospital stays and reduced time lost from work.
  • Reduced hospital stays and decreased human suffering.
  • Decreased human suffering and reduced costs.

Which nursing intervention is crucial in preventing HAIs related to vascular catheters?

  • Administering broad-spectrum antibiotics prophylactically.
  • Ensuring appropriate disposal of soiled linens.
  • Reviewing patient immunization status.
  • Minimizing the use of vascular catheters. (correct)

Why is reviewing a patient's immunization status important for preventing healthcare-associated infections?

<p>To ensure patients are protected against vaccine-preventable diseases. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of infection surveillance in healthcare settings?

<p>Assessing patients for signs and symptoms of infection. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following assessment findings is LEAST likely to indicate a potential infection?

<p>Reports of increased energy (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient who is immunocompromised is at a higher risk of infection because:

<p>Their bodies have a reduced ability to fight off pathogens. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following signs in or around a wound is the LEAST indicative of a localized infection?

<p>Decreased pain at the wound site. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The primary goal of medical asepsis is to:

<p>Reduce the number of microorganisms to prevent the spread of infection. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following actions contributes the LEAST to the principles of medical asepsis?

<p>Administering antibiotics to all patients to prevent infection. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which patient is at greater risk of infection?

<p>An elderly patient with a catheter and a history of diabetes. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient reports a cough, malaise, and loss of appetite. What other symptom would MOST strongly suggest a possible infection?

<p>An unexpected elevation of temperature (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with drainage tubes is at an increased risk of infection primarily because:

<p>Drainage tubes provide a direct pathway for microorganisms to enter the body. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which scenario most accurately describes how the body's natural defenses respond to a localized bacterial infection?

<p>The inflammatory response is triggered, leading to increased white blood cell activity at the site of infection. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

An elderly patient recovering from hip replacement surgery develops a fever and redness at the incision site. Which factor most likely contributes to this increased susceptibility to infection?

<p>The presence of a surgical incision, which breaches the body's natural barriers to infection. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A nurse is caring for a patient with active tuberculosis. Which type of personal protective equipment (PPE) is MOST essential to prevent transmission of the infection to the nurse?

<p>N-95 respirator. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient has a wound that is not healing properly. Which factor would MOST likely impair the healing and repair of the damaged tissue?

<p>Chronic condition such as diabetes. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A healthcare worker is about to assist with a procedure that involves potential contact with a patient's blood. Which of the following types of PPE is required?

<p>Gloves and gown. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient presents with localized swelling, redness, and pain around a surgical incision. Which of the following BEST explains the role of fever in preventing infection?

<p>Fever inhibits the growth and replication of some pathogens and enhances the body's immune response. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which factor increases the risk of infection the MOST?

<p>Compromised immune system. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient is diagnosed with a highly contagious gastrointestinal infection. Which scenario would necessitate the use of Transmission-Based Precautions in addition to Standard Precautions?

<p>Standard Precautions alone are insufficient to prevent the spread of the infection. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following combinations of findings would MOST strongly suggest an active infectious process?

<p>Elevated WBC count, elevated ESR, positive cultures. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Imaging techniques like X-rays, CT scans and MRIs are MOST useful in detecting:

<p>Changes in tissues/organs and locating abscesses. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient is suspected of having tuberculosis. Which diagnostic test is MOST appropriate for initial screening?

<p>Intradermal skin test. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the PRIMARY purpose of teaching patients about diagnostic tests related to their infection?

<p>To inform the patient about the reasons for the tests. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which finding would indicate that a patient's infection treatment has been effective?

<p>WBC count within normal limits. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A community health initiative focuses on reducing the spread of infectious diseases. Which intervention aligns BEST with this goal?

<p>Promoting sanitary standards. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why might it be beneficial to identify individuals who are highly susceptible to infection?

<p>To provide targeted educational and preventative measures. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the MOST direct benefit of community immunization programs?

<p>Protection against specific infectious diseases. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In which of the following scenarios is the primary goal to eliminate microorganisms completely?

<p>Sterilizing surgical instruments before an operation. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following procedures requires a surgically aseptic environment?

<p>Peripheral intravenous catheter insertion. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient develops bacteremia following a surgical procedure. Which of the following represents the most severe potential progression of this condition if left untreated?

<p>Systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS). (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which assessment finding would be most indicative of a patient progressing towards septic shock?

<p>Hypotension, tachycardia, and decreased urine output. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is meticulous data collection important when suspecting a patient may have an infection?

<p>It establishes a baseline to monitor changes and identify signs of sepsis or septic shock. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

An elderly patient is admitted with a suspected urinary tract infection. What is the most important consideration, related to age, for the nurse to be aware of during assessment?

<p>Typical signs of infection may be blunted or absent in older adults. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with an indwelling Foley catheter is being discharged. Which instruction is most important for the nurse to include in the discharge teaching to prevent infection?

<p>Ensure the drainage bag is emptied regularly and avoid kinks in the tubing. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A nurse observes a colleague preparing to start an intravenous infusion. The colleague does not put on sterile gloves before inserting the IV catheter. What action should the nurse take first?

<p>Quietly explain to the colleague the importance of sterile gloves during IV insertion. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an example of an innate defense mechanism against infection?

<p>The inflammatory response. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does normal flora typically protect against harmful pathogens?

<p>By competing with harmful pathogens for resources and space. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with diabetes mellitus is at an increased risk of infection due to:

<p>Decreased phagocytosis activity. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of 'walling off organisms' during the inflammatory response?

<p>To limit the infection's spread to other tissues in the body. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes acquired immunity?

<p>Resistance developed after exposure to an antigen. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Functions of the inflammatory response INCLUDES all of the following EXCEPT:

<p>Stimulating the production of red blood cells. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an example of protective and defensive mechanisms against infection?

<p>Leukocytosis. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The degree of host susceptibility to infection is LEAST affected by:

<p>Exposure to sunlight. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the body's normal flora contribute to preventing infection?

<p>By competing with pathogens for resources, thus limiting their growth and colonization. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If the skin is broken, which defense mechanism is immediately activated?

<p>The inflammatory response, promoting healing and preventing further invasion. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an example of the chemical barrier function of the skin and mucous membranes?

<p>The acidic pH of the skin inhibiting bacterial growth. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do mucous membranes protect the body from infection?

<p>By physically trapping pathogens and facilitating their removal from the body. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient has a condition that impairs their inflammatory response. Which of the following is a likely consequence?

<p>Impaired wound healing and increased susceptibility to infection (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Considering the factors contributing to healthcare-associated infections (HAIs), which patient scenario presents the HIGHEST risk?

<p>An elderly patient with a urinary catheter admitted for a hip fracture repair. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In which of the following scenarios is meticulous hand hygiene MOST critical in preventing the spread of infection?

<p>Changing a central line dressing on an immunocompromised patient. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient is being discharged after a prolonged hospital stay. What is the MOST important instruction related to infection prevention the nurse should provide to the patient and their family?

<p>Monitor for signs and symptoms of infection, and report them promptly. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A nurse is caring for a patient with a multi-drug resistant organism (MDRO) infection. Which intervention is MOST crucial in preventing the spread of the MDRO to other patients?

<p>Placing the patient in a private room and using dedicated equipment. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Following an aseptic procedure, a nurse notes a small tear in one of their sterile gloves. What is the MOST appropriate immediate action?

<p>Remove the gloves immediately, perform hand hygiene, and don a new pair of sterile gloves. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does normal flora typically prevent infection?

<p>By competing with harmful pathogens for resources and space. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which physiological process is the most direct example of an innate defense mechanism against infection?

<p>An increase in circulating white blood cells (leukocytosis) in response to tissue injury. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is the inflammatory response crucial in combating infection?

<p>It neutralizes harmful agents and prepares damaged tissues for repair. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which factor related to host susceptibility has the most significant impact on increasing the risk of infection?

<p>A compromised immune status. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the body's inflammatory response limit the spread of infection?

<p>By walling off organisms to prevent their spread. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of macrophages in defending against infection?

<p>Phagocytizing and destroying pathogens. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which process most directly exemplifies acquired immunity?

<p>Production of antibodies following vaccination. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

During an infection, what best describes the interaction between normal flora and the host's immune system?

<p>Normal flora primarily competes with pathogens, but can cause infection if the immune system is suppressed. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with a catheter suddenly develops a fever, and their urine becomes cloudy and foul-smelling. What is the MOST likely cause of these findings?

<p>Healthcare-associated infection. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

An elderly patient recovering from surgery reports a loss of appetite and general malaise. The patient's wound appears clean and dry. What additional assessment would BEST help determine if these symptoms are related to an infection?

<p>Monitor the patient's temperature and white blood cell count. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which action is the MOST effective in reducing the spread of microorganisms and preventing healthcare-associated infections?

<p>Performing consistent and thorough hand hygiene. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient develops diarrhea while hospitalized. Stool cultures are positive for Clostridium difficile. In addition to standard precautions, which of the following actions is MOST important to prevent the spread of this infection?

<p>Washing hands with soap and water after patient contact. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following patients is MOST likely to be susceptible to infection?

<p>An elderly patient receiving chemotherapy. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A nurse is caring for a patient with a wound infection. Which action is MOST appropriate for disposing of contaminated dressings?

<p>Placing them in a biohazard bag. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A newly admitted patient reports a persistent cough, night sweats, and weight loss. What is the MOST appropriate initial nursing intervention?

<p>Initiating airborne precautions. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which intervention is LEAST likely to interrupt the chain of infection?

<p>Sharing personal care items with others. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following scenarios requires the MOST stringent application of surgical asepsis?

<p>Inserting a central venous catheter. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient undergoing chemotherapy develops bacteremia. Which subsequent condition would be the MOST life-threatening if not promptly addressed?

<p>Progression to septic shock. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the priority nursing assessment when monitoring a patient at risk for developing septic shock?

<p>Monitoring mental status, vital signs, and urine output. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

An elderly client is admitted with confusion, a low-grade fever, and a productive cough. Why is a comprehensive assessment especially crucial for this patient demographic?

<p>Normal physiological changes of aging can mask typical signs of infection. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which surgical procedure requires the MOST rigorous application of aseptic technique to prevent infection?

<p>Laparoscopic appendectomy. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with sepsis develops a rapid drop in blood pressure, despite aggressive fluid resuscitation. Which of the conditions is MOST likely developing?

<p>Septic shock. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the rationale for closely monitoring urine output in a patient suspected of progressing towards septic shock?

<p>Decreased urine output may indicate impaired renal function due to hypoperfusion. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why are older adult patients potentially more prone to bacteremia after minor invasive procedures, compared to younger adults?

<p>Age-related decline in immune function increases susceptibility to infection. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is monitoring erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) useful in the context of infection?

<p>It indicates the presence and degree of inflammation in the body. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When a patient is suspected of having an abscess, which diagnostic imaging technique would be MOST effective in locating it?

<p>Computed Tomography (CT) scan or Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a patient diagnosed with tuberculosis, what is the PRIMARY purpose of an intradermal skin test?

<p>To determine if the person has been infected with tuberculosis. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of monitoring a patient's white blood cell (WBC) count and differential during an infection?

<p>To determine the presence of infection and identify the specific type of immune cells involved. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the MOST important information to include when educating a patient about diagnostic tests for an infection?

<p>The purpose of the tests, the testing procedure, and special precautions to be taken. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following findings indicates that a patient is responding positively to treatment for an infection?

<p>Temperature, pulse, and respirations are within normal range. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A community health nurse is planning interventions to reduce the incidence of infectious diseases. Which action would be MOST impactful at the community level?

<p>Implementing community-wide immunization programs. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary rationale for identifying individuals who are highly susceptible to infection?

<p>To provide targeted education and preventive strategies to reduce their risk of infection. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Infection Risk Factors

Conditions that raise the likelihood of getting an infection.

Natural Defense Mechanisms

The body's shields, like skin and immune cells that ward off invaders.

Fever's Role in Infection

An elevated body temperature that helps to combat infection.

Classic Signs of Infection

Redness, swelling, heat, pain, and loss of function.

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Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Equipment like gloves, gowns, and masks used to protect against infection.

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Transmission-Based Precautions

Protocols used when standard precautions are not enough to contain infection.

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Older Adults & Infection Risk

Age-related changes that weaken the immune system.

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Factors Affecting Tissue Healing

Nutrition, circulation, and immune response that supports recovery.

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Incubation period in HAIs

The length of time a patient is in a healthcare facility before an infection appears.

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Costs of HAIs

Increased medical expenses, extended hospital stays, increased human suffering and lost work time.

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Hand Hygiene

Hand washing is the single most effective method to prevent the spread of infection.

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Reduce Catheter Infections

Strategies to minimize infections related to vascular catheters.

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Safe Waste Disposal

Proper handling and disposal of contaminated materials to prevent the spread of infection.

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Innate Immunity

Immunity you are born with; natural protection.

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Acquired Immunity

Immunity that develops throughout life.

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Host Susceptibility

The degree to which a body is likely to get an infection.

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Leukocytosis

White blood cell production increases.

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Phagocytosis

Cells that engulf and digest microorganisms and cellular debris

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Macrophages

A type of white blood cell that engulfs and digests pathogens.

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Normal Flora

Microorganisms that normally coexist with the body.

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Inflammatory Response Purpose

Neutralize, limit spread, and prepare for tissue repair after injury or infection.

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Malaise

A general feeling of discomfort, illness, or unease.

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Elevated Temperature

Bodily response with higher temperature to fight infection.

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Cough

A common symptom often related to respiratory issues or infections.

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Loss of Appetite

Reduced desire to eat.

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Foul-Smelling Urine

Urine with an unpleasant odor, potentially indicating infection.

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New-Onset Diarrhea

Change in bowel habits, experiencing loose or liquid stools.

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Infected Wounds

Wounds exhibiting redness, swelling, pain, and potentially odorous discharge.

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Medical Asepsis

Practices to reduce the number of microorganisms.

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Sterilization

The goal is to kill all microorganisms completely.

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Surgical Asepsis

Practices that keep objects and areas free of all microorganisms.

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Bacteremia

The presence of bacteria in the bloodstream.

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Sepsis

A dangerous condition caused by the body's response to an infection.

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Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (SIRS)

Overwhelming inflammatory response – may or may not be caused by infection.

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Septic Shock

Sepsis with life-threatening organ dysfunction due to poor tissue perfusion.

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Multiorgan Failure

The failure of multiple organs, often as a result of septic shock.

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Nursing Assessment

Gathering both subjective and objective patient data.

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Infection Lab Findings

Increased white blood cell count, changes in leukocyte distribution, elevated ESR, and positive microbiology cultures.

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Bacteriologic Tests

Tests to identify specific infectious organisms and their sensitivities to antibiotics.

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Intradermal Skin Tests

Tests that check for immune reactions to specific pathogens.

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Radiography/Imaging

Imaging techniques to find changes in tissues/organs, like abscesses.

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Infection Patient Teaching

Understanding diagnostic test purposes, treatments, and special precautions for managing infection.

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Infection Resolution Indicators

Temperature, pulse, and respirations within normal range. WBC count and ESR are normal, cultures are negative.

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Community Sanitary Standards

Promoting cleanliness and sanitary conditions within communities.

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Protecting Susceptible Individuals

Identifying and protecting those with weakened immune systems.

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Skin Barrier

The body's first line of defense against infection; a physical barrier.

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Mucous Membranes

Protective layers lining body cavities and passages that secrete mucus to trap pathogens.

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Inflammatory Response

A protective response triggered by injury or infection; it neutralizes harmful agents.

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Immune Response

Specialized defense system involving antibodies and immune cells to target specific pathogens.

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Healthcare-Associated Infections (HAIs)

Infections acquired during a hospital stay.

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Consequences of HAIs

Extended hospital stays, increased costs, suffering, and lost work time.

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HAI Prevention

Practices like hand hygiene to prevent the spread of infection.

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Infection Surveillance

Assessing patients for indicators of infection.

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Signs and Symptoms of Infection

Checking for fever, malaise, change in urine or presence of infected wounds.

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Sterilizing

Practices aimed at eliminating microorganisms completely.

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Elevated WBC Count

Elevated white blood cell count, indicating the body is fighting an infection or inflammation.

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Elevated Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR)

A blood test that measures how quickly red blood cells settle; elevated during inflammation.

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Microbiology Cultures

Lab tests to identify specific bacteria or other microbes causing an infection. (e.g. blood, urine, wound)

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Culture and Sensitivity: MDROs

Lab tests to identify resistant organisms and determine which antibiotics will be effective.

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Radiography/Imaging for Infection

Using x-rays, CT scans, or MRIs to locate abscesses or see changes in tissues/organs due to infection.

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Infection Patient/Family Teaching

Educating patients/families about infection's nature, tests, treatments, and precautions.

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Provide Immunization Programs

Immunization programs to protect against infectious diseases.

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