Nature of Infection
What is the definition of infection?
The invasion of a susceptible host by microorganisms, resulting in disease.
What is the first component of the chain of infection?
Infectious Agent.
What is the role of normal flora in the body?
To maintain a balance and help prevent infection?
What are HAIs?
Infections that result from the delivery of health services in a healthcare setting.
What is medical asepsis also known as?
Clean technique.
What is the most effective way to prevent infection spread?
Hand hygiene
What is the difference between infection and colonization?
Infection causes tissue damage and symptoms; colonization is growth without symptoms.
Name one type of reservoir in the chain of infection.
Humans, animals, or the environment.
Name one physical barrier that helps protect against infection.
Skin or cilia in the respiratory tract.
Name common risk factors for HAIs?
Invasive procedures, long hospital stays, or underlying health conditions.
What is the main goal of surgical asepsis?
To eliminate all microorganisms from an area.
When should hand hygiene be performed?
Before and after patient contact, after removing gloves, and when hands are visibly soiled.
What does it mean when an infection is asymptomatic?
The infection does not cause any signs or symptoms.
What is the portal of exit?
The path by which the microorganism leaves the reservoir (e.g., respiratory tract, blood).
What are the signs of an inflammatory response?
Redness, heat, swelling, and pain.
What is an exogenous infection?
An infection from external microorganisms.
What type of precautions are used for all patients?
Standard Precautions.
What is one common nursing diagnosis related to infection control?
Risk for Infection.
What type of disease is transmitted directly from one person to another?
Contagious disease.
How do microorganisms spread from one person to another?
Through modes of transmission like direct contact and airborne routes.
How does the immune response protect the body?
It involves antibodies and white blood cells attacking foreign substances.
How can healthcare providers help prevent HAIs?
By practicing proper hand hygiene, using aseptic techniques, and limiting invasive devices.
When are airborne precautions necessary?
For diseases like TB (tuberculosis).
-Requires N95 masks, negative pressure rooms.
During the planning phase of the nursing process, what should be developed to reduce infection risks?
Goals and outcomes.
What does symptomatic infection mean?
An infection that causes signs and symptoms in the host.
What makes a person a susceptible host?
Having weak immune defenses that increase the risk of infection.
Name a part of the immune response that specifically targets antigens.
Antibodies.
What does endogenous infection mean?
An infection resulting from the patient’s altered flora.
What protective equipment is required for contact precautions?
Gowns and gloves.
In the evaluation phase of the nursing process, what is assessed?
The effectiveness of infection control interventions and adjustments as needed.