Pathogens
A microorganism that causes disease
What is a pathogen?
Direct contact / Indirect contact
What is the most common way to reduce pathogen spread?
Hand hygiene
Where are infections most dangerous to spread?
Hospitals (Patient risk)
What did the glowing substance in the lab represent?
Pathogens/contamination
Name two types of pathogens
Bacteria, viruses, fungi
What is indirect transmission?
Spread through surfaces or objects
Why is the proper technique important when cleaning hands?
What are healthcare associated infections (HAIs)?
Infections acquired during medical care
What happened when people interacted before the UV light was used?
Contamination spread
Does exposure to a pathogen always cause infection? Why or why not?
What is a fomite?
A contaminated object that spreads pathogens
Name an area people often miss when cleaning their hands
Thumbs, nails, between fingers
Why can one healthcare worker spread infection to multiple patients
Interaction with multiple patients and contaminated surfaces
Why was the spread of contamination difficult to notice at first
What must happen for an infection to occur after exposure?
Pathogen enters body and multiplies
Why can pathogens spread before symptoms appear?
People are contagious before feeling sick
Why might sanitizer be less effective than handwashing
May not remove all contaminants
Why are hospital patients at a higher risk for infection?
Weakened immune systems
What was the main takeaway from the lab about pathogen spread?
It spreads quickly and easily without awareness
What pathogen causes the flu?
Virus
Explain how indirect transmission can lead to infection
What type of pathogen can survive on surfaces for long periods and spread through indirect contact?
Bacteria
What pathogen is commonly associated with hospital infections and is highly resistant to antibiotics?
MRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus)
Because it occurs through everyday interactions and goes unnoticed