Infection Control Basics

Infection Control

• The CDC is a leading organization focused on improving healthcare safety for Americans.
• The chain of infection describes the steps involved in the transmission of an infection:
  • Infectious Agent: The microbe or organism causing the infection, like bacteria or viruses.
  • Reservoir: The place where the infectious agent lives and multiplies, like a person, animal, or surface.
  • Portal of Exit: How the infectious agent escapes from the reservoir, like through coughing, sneezing, or open wounds.
  • Mode of Transmission: How the agent travels from the reservoir to the susceptible host, such as through contact, air, or a contaminated object.
  • Portal of Entry: The way the infectious agent enters the new host, like through the mouth, nose, or break in the skin.
  • Susceptible Host: An individual who is vulnerable to the infection due to factors like age, weakened immune system, or certain medical conditions.
• Nosocomial Infections (HAIs) are infections caught in healthcare facilities.
  • Common types of HAIs include urinary tract infections, respiratory infections, wound infections, and blood infections.
• The body has natural defenses against infection:
  • The skin acts as the first line of defense.
  • White blood cells are responsible for fighting off pathogens inside the body.
• Hand hygiene is vital for preventing infection.
  • It's the single most effective preventative measure to minimize the spread of germs.
  • Scrub your hands for a minimum of 20 seconds, ensuring all surfaces are thoroughly cleaned.
  • Long fingernails or artificial nails can harbor bacteria and increase the risk of infection.
  • Hand rubs are effective if the appropriate amount is applied and the entire surface, including the hands and wrists, is rubbed until dry.
  • Remember the five moments of hand hygiene:
    • Before resident contact
    • Before an aseptic task
    • After exposure to blood/body fluids
    • After resident contact
    • After contact with resident surroundings
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is crucial in specific healthcare settings.
  • Gloves are worn when there is a risk of contact with blood, body fluids, or other potentially infectious materials.
  • Masks and gowns are used during procedures or personal care where there is a likelihood of splashing or spraying of body fluids or potential exposure to infectious materials.
  • Order of Putting On PPE: Gown, mask, gloves.
  • Order of Taking Off PPE: Gloves, gown, mask.

This quiz covers essential concepts of infection control, including the chain of infection as defined by the CDC. It addresses key components such as the infectious agent, reservoir, portal of exit, mode of transmission, portal of entry, and the characteristics of a susceptible host. Test your understanding of these vital healthcare safety practices.