Types & Characteristics
What is the difference between colonization and infection?
Colonization is the presence of microorganisms w/o tissue damage; infection causes tissue damage
During which stage do pathogens replicate w/o causing symptoms?
Incubation stage
What happens to the WBC count during bacterial infection?
Increased levels
How long must a patient be hospitalized for an infection to be considered an HAI?
Over 48 hours
Why are newborns at a higher risk for infection?
They have an immature immune system
What is a local infection?
An infection limited to a specific area of the body
What type of symptoms are present during the prodromal stage?
Vague, non-specific symptoms
What lab finding indicates an acute infection w/ increased immature neutrophils?
Left shift
What type of HAI results from medical procedures or treatments?
Iatrogenic infection
How long do maternal immunoglobulins protect newborns?
Approx. 2-3 months
An infection that spreads throughout the entire body
Which stage is characterized by fever, chills, and increased heart rate?
Illness stage
Which lab marker is used to identify sepsis?
Procalcitonin
What type of HAI originates from the hospital environment or HCW?
Exogenous infection
Why are adolescents at an increased risk for infections?
Risk-taking behaviors and increased exposure to STIs
What is an acute infection?
An infection with sudden onset and short duration
Which populations may experience hypothermia instead of fever during infection?
Older adults and alcoholics
How do viral infections affect WBC count?
Decrease levels
What type of infection occurs within the first 48 hours of hospitalization?
Community-acquired infection
What infection related risk increases during pregnancy?
Infections can cause birth defects
What is a chronic infection?
An infection with slow onset and long duration
During which stage does healing and recovery occur?
Convalescence stage
What diagnostic test determines the most effective antibiotic?
Culture and sensitivity testing
What common nursing intervention helps prevent HAIs?
WASH YA HANDS
What age group is at risk for febrile seizures during infection?
Children 6 months to 5 years old