Title: 1. Define infection prevention and discuss types of infections
11. Define infection prevention and discuss types
of infections
- Define the following terms
- infection prevention
- the set of methods practiced in healthcare
facilities to prevent and control the spread of
disease. - microorganism/microbe
- a living thing or organism that is so small that
it can be seen only under a microscope. - infection
- the state resulting from pathogens invading the
body and multiplying.
21. Define infection prevention and discuss types
of infections
- Define the following terms
- pathogens
- microorganisms that are capable of causing
infection and disease. - localized infection
- an infection that is limited to a specific
location in the body and has local symptoms. - systemic infection
- an infection that is in the bloodstream and is
spread throughout the body, causing general
symptoms. - healthcare-associated infection (HAI)
- an infection acquired within a healthcare
setting during the delivery of medical care.
31. Define infection prevention and discuss types
of infections
- It is important to observe and report the
following signs and symptoms of localized
infections - Pain
- Redness
- Pus
- Swelling
- Drainage (fluid from a wound or cavity)
- Heat
41. Define infection prevention and discuss types
of infections
- It is important to observe and report the
following signs and symptoms of systemic
infections - Fever
- Body aches
- Chills
- Nausea, vomiting
- Weakness
- Headache
- Mental confusion
- Drop in blood pressure
52. Describe the chain of infection
- Define the following terms
- chain of infection
- a way of describing how disease is transmitted
from one being to another. - causative agent
- a pathogenic microorganism that causes disease.
- reservoir
- a place where a pathogen lives and grows.
62. Describe the chain of infection
- Define the following terms
- portal of exit
- any body opening on an infected person that
allows pathogens to leave. - mode of transmission
- the method of describing how a pathogen travels.
- direct contact
- a way of transmitting pathogens through touching
the infected person or his or her secretions. - indirect contact
- a way of transmitting pathogens from touching
something contaminated by the infected person.
72. Describe the chain of infection
- Define the following terms
- portal of entry
- any body opening on an uninfected person that
allows pathogens to enter. - mucous membranes
- the membranes that line body cavities that open
to the outside of the body, such as the linings
of the mouth, nose, eyes, rectum, or genitals. - susceptible host
- an uninfected person who could get sick.
- transmission
- passage or transfer.
82. Describe the chain of infection
- Define the following terms
- infectious
- contagious.
- medical asepsis
- refers to practices such as handwashing that
reduce, remove, and control the spread of
microorganisms. - surgical asepsis
- the state of being free of all microorganisms
also called sterile technique.
9Transparency 5-1 The Chain of Infection
102. Describe the chain of infection
- REMEMBER
- If even one link in the chain of infection is
broken, the spread of infection is stopped.
112. Describe the chain of infection
- Think about these questions
- What is an example of each link in the chain of
infection? - How could that link be broken?
12Handout 5-1 Infection Prevention Definitions
- Microorganism Microorganisms are single-celled
organisms that only can be viewed with the aid of
a microscope. Microorganisms can be divided into
five basic categoriesbacteria, viruses, fungi,
protozoa, and helminthes. Most microorganisms are
harmlesssome are even beneficial. Others are
capable of causing infection or disease.
Microorganisms are often classified as either
pathogenic or nonpathogenic. - Nonpathogenic microorganism A nonpathogenic
microorganism is a type of microorganism that is
incapable of causing or unable to cause infection
or disease. - Pathogenic microorganism A pathogenic
microorganism is a type of microorganism that is
capable of causing infection or disease it is
also called a pathogen.
13Handout 5-1 Infection Prevention Definitions
(contd)
- Bacteria Bacteria are single-celled
microorganisms that lack nuclei and organized
cell structures. Bacteria can exist independently
(on their own) or as parasites, dependent upon a
host for life. Bacteria can be found in three
basic shapesround, rod, or spiral. While some
bacteria are capable of causing disease, most are
non-infectious and many have critical roles in
decay, fermentation, and nutrient recycling. - Bacteria help people digest food. Some bacteria
destroy disease-causing cells, and some produce
important vitamins in the gastrointestinal tract.
Bacteria also play a role in food processing,
such as in the production of yogurt and cheeses. - Pathogenic bacteria can cause cell damage or
death by producing substances known as toxins.
Other cell damage can occur when the hosts
immune system produces substances to eliminate
bacteria, and these substances damage the
infected cells and adjacent cells.
14Handout 5-1 Infection Prevention Definitions
(contd)
- Virus Viruses are small packages of DNA or RNA
encased in protein shells that invade a cell
(host cell) and incorporate themselves into the
host cells DNA. When the infected host cell
begins to produce (replicate) new viral
particles, the infected cell dies. - Fungi Fungi are multi-celled or single-celled
organisms. They can be pathogenic, causing
infections in healthy persons, or opportunistic,
causing infections in people with weakened immune
systems. Fungi can be nonpathogenic as well, and
some types of fungi are even beneficial, such as
those used to make antibiotics. A few types of
fungi are considered delicacies, such as truffles
and edible mushrooms. - Yeasts and molds are examples of fungi. Fungi are
the most common causes of disease in crops and
plants. Fungi receive their nourishment by
secreting enzymes that break down surrounding
cells. When this happens on living tissue, it is
irritating and uncomfortable.
15Handout 5-1 Infection Prevention Definitions
(contd)
- Parasite A parasite is an organism that lives on
or in an organism of a different speciesa host. - Infection An infection occurs when
microorganisms enter and multiply within the
tissue of a host, causing damage to that tissue.
Symptoms may be apparent, or the host may display
no symptoms. - Disease A disease occurs when tissue that has
been damaged due to the entry and multiplication
of microorganisms results in clinical signs and
symptoms of a recognizable process. - Host A host is an organism or cell on or in
which a microorganism lives or feeds.
163. Explain why the elderly are at a higher risk
for infection
- Define the following terms
- malnutrition
- poor nutrition due to improper diet.
- dehydration
- a serious condition resulting from inadequate
fluid in the body.
173. Explain why the elderly are at a higher risk
for infection
- The following factors place the elderly at a
higher risk for infection than the general
public - Weakened immune systems
- Decreased circulation
- Slow wound healing
- Malnutrition
- Dehydration
- Limited mobility
- Hospitalization
- Difficulty swallowing
- Incontinence
- Feeding tubes and other tubing
184. Explain Standard Precautions
- Define the following terms
- Occupational Safety and Health Administration
(OSHA) - a federal government agency that makes rules to
protect workers from hazards on the job. - Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
- a government agency under the Department of
Health and Human Services (HHS) that issues
information to protect the health of individuals
and communities. - isolate
- to keep something separate, or by itself.
194. Explain Standard Precautions
- Define the following terms
- Standard Precautions
- a method of infection prevention in which all
blood, body fluids, non-intact skin, and mucous
membranes are treated as if they were infected
with an infectious disease. - sharps
- needles or other sharp objects.
204. Explain Standard Precautions
- The CDC defines body fluids as including the
following substances - Saliva
- Sputum (mucus coughed up)
- Urine
- Feces
- Semen
- Vaginal secretions
- Pus or other wound drainage
- Vomit
-
214. Explain Standard Precautions
- Think about this question
- Why should Standard Precautions be followed with
every resident in an NAs care? -
224. Explain Standard Precautions
- REMEMBER
- It is impossible to tell from looking at a person
whether he or she has an infectious disease. -
234. Explain Standard Precautions
- Standard Precautions include the following
measures - Wash hands.
- Wear gloves.
- Remove gloves immediately when finished with a
procedure. - Immediately wash skin surfaces.
- Wear a disposable gown.
- Wear a mask and goggles.
-
244. Explain Standard Precautions
- Standard Precautions (contd)
- Wear gloves when handling sharp objects.
- Never attempt to recap needles or sharps.
- Avoid nicks and cuts.
- Bag all contaminated supplies.
- Clearly label body fluids.
- Dispose of contaminated waste properly.
-
255. Explain hand hygiene and identify when to wash
hands
- Define the following terms
- hand hygiene
- washing hands with either plain or antiseptic
soap and water and using alcohol-based hand rubs.
- antimicrobial
- an agent that destroys, resists, or prevents the
development of pathogens.
265. Explain hand hygiene and identify when to wash
hands
- REMEMBER
- It is very important to wash hands with soap and
water. NAs should not rely solely on
alcohol-based rubs. -
275. Explain hand hygiene and identify when to wash
hands
- NAs should wash their hands at the following
times - When first arriving at work
- Any time they are visibly soiled
- Before, between, and after all resident contact
- Before putting on gloves and after removing
gloves - After contact with body fluids, mucous
membranes, non-intact skin, wound dressings - After handling contaminated items
- After contact with objects in residents room
-
285. Explain hand hygiene and identify when to wash
hands
- Times to wash hands (contd)
- Before and after touching meal trays or
handling food - Before and after feeding residents
- Before getting clean linen
- Before and after using the toilet
- After touching garbage or trash
- After picking up things from the floor
-
295. Explain hand hygiene and identify when to wash
hands
- Times to wash hands (contd)
- After blowing nose or sneezing into hand
- Before and after eating
- After smoking
- After touching areas on the body
- Before and after applying makeup
- After any contact with pets/pet care items
- Before leaving facility
-
305. Explain hand hygiene and identify when to wash
hands
- REMEMBER
- Hand-washing is the single most important thing
an NA can do to prevent the spread of disease. -
31Washing hands (hand hygiene)
- Equipment soap, paper towels
- 1. Turn on water at sink. Keep your clothes dry,
because moisture breeds bacteria. - Wet hands and wrists thoroughly.
- 3. Apply soap to your hands.
32Washing hands (hand hygiene)
- Keep your hands lower than your elbows and your
fingertips down. Rub hands together and fingers
between each other to create a lather. Lather all
surfaces of wrists, fingers, and hands, using
friction for at least 20 seconds. Friction helps
clean. - 5. Clean your nails by rubbing them in the palm
of your other hand.
33Washing hands (hand hygiene)
- 6. Being careful not to touch the sink, rinse
thoroughly under running water. Rinse all
surfaces of your hands and wrists. Run water down
from wrists to fingertips. Do not run water over
unwashed arms down to clean hands.
34Washing hands (hand hygiene)
- 7. Use a clean, dry paper towel to dry all
surfaces of your hands, wrists, and fingers. Do
not wipe towel on unwashed forearms and then wipe
clean hands. Dispose of paper towel into waste
container without touching the container. If your
hands touch the sink or wastebasket, start over.
35Washing hands (hand hygiene)
- Use a clean, dry paper towel to turn off the
faucet then dispose of paper towel into waste
container. Do not contaminate your hands by
touching the surface of the sink or faucet.
366. Discuss the use of personal protective
equipment (PPE) in facilities
- Define the following terms
- personal protective equipment (PPE)
- equipment that helps protect employees from
serious workplace injuries or illnesses resulting
from contact with workplace hazards. - don
- to put on.
- doff
- to remove.
376. Discuss the use of personal protective
equipment (PPE) in facilities
- Define the following terms
- perineal care
- care of the genitals and anal area.
- non-intact skin
- skin that is broken by abrasions, cuts, rashes,
acne, pimples, lesions, surgical incisions, or
boils.
386. Discuss the use of personal protective
equipment (PPE) in facilities
- PPE must be worn when a caregiver might come into
contact with any of the following - Body fluids
- Mucous membranes
- Open wounds
-
396. Discuss the use of personal protective
equipment (PPE) in facilities
- REMEMBER
- NAs must wear gowns, masks, goggles, and face
shields any time splashing or spraying of body
fluids or blood could occur -
406. Discuss the use of personal protective
equipment (PPE) in facilities
- NAs should remember these points about gowns
- Gowns protect exposed skin
- They prevent soiling of clothing
- They should fully cover the torso, and the
sleeves should fit snugly. -
41Putting on (donning) and removing (doffing) gown
- 1. Wash your hands.
- 2. Open the gown. Hold out in front of you and
allow gown to open/unfold. Do not shake it.
Facing the back opening of the gown, place your
arms through each sleeve. - Fasten the neck opening.
- Reaching behind you, pull the gown until it
completely covers your clothing. Secure gown at
waist.
42Putting on (donning) and removing (doffing) gown
- 5. Use a gown only once and then remove and
discard it. If gown becomes wet or soiled during
care, remove it. Check your clothing, and put on
a new gown. OSHA requires non-permeable
gownsgowns that liquids cannot penetratewhen
working in a bloody situation. - 6. Put on your gloves after putting on gown. The
cuffs of gloves should overlap the cuffs of the
gown.
43Putting on (donning) and removing (doffing) gown
- 7. When removing a gown, remove and discard
gloves properly (see procedure later in the
chapter). Unfasten gown at neck and waist. Remove
the gown without touching the outside of gown.
Roll the dirty side in, while holding gown away
from your body. Dispose of gown properly and wash
your hands.
446. Discuss the use of personal protective
equipment (PPE) in facilities
- NAs should remember these points about masks and
goggles - Masks are worn when the resident has a
respiratory illness. - Masks should fully cover the nose and mouth.
- Masks should fit snugly over nose and mouth.
- It is important to change masks between
residents. - Goggles should fit snugly over eyes or
eyeglasses. -
45Putting on (donning) mask and goggles
- 1. Wash your hands.
- 2. Pick up the mask by top strings or elastic
strap. Do not touch the mask where it touches
your face. - 3. Pull elastic strap over your head, or if mask
has strings, tie top strings first, then bottom
strings. Do not wear a mask hanging from only the
bottom tie or strap. Masks must always be dry or
they must be replaced
46Putting on (donning) mask and goggles
- 4. Pinch the metal strip at the top of the mask
(if part of the mask) tightly around your nose so
that it feels snug. - Put on the goggles over your eyes or eyeglasses.
Use the headband to secure them to your head.
Make sure they are on snugly. - 6. Put on gloves after putting on mask and
goggles.
476. Discuss the use of personal protective
equipment (PPE) in facilities
- Gloves must be worn in the following situations
- If the NA might touch blood or any body fluid
- During mouth care or care of any mucous
membrane - During perineal care
- When providing personal care on non-intact skin
- When providing personal care if NA has cuts on
hands - When shaving resident
- When disposing of soiled linens, gowns,
dressings, and pads - When touching contaminated surfaces or
equipment -
486. Discuss the use of personal protective
equipment (PPE) in facilities
- Gloves must be changed in these situations
- Immediately before contact with mucous
membranes or broken skin - If gloves become soiled, worn, or damaged
-
49Putting on (donning) gloves
- 1. Wash your hands.
- 2. If you are right-handed, slide one glove on
your left hand (reverse if left-handed). - 3. Using your gloved hand, slide the other hand
into the second glove. - 4. Interlace fingers to smooth out folds and
create a comfortable fit. - 5. Carefully look for tears, holes, or
discolored spots. Replace the glove if needed.
50Putting on (donning) gloves
- 6. If wearing a gown, pull the cuff of the
gloves over the sleeves of the gown.
516. Discuss the use of personal protective
equipment (PPE) in facilities
- Gloves should be removed
- After use
- Before caring for another resident
- Before touching non-contaminated items or
surfaces -
52Removing (doffing) gloves
- Touch only the outside of one glove. With one
gloved hand, grasp the other glove at the palm
and pull the glove off. - With the fingertips of your gloved hand, hold the
glove you just removed. With your ungloved hand,
slip two fingers underneath cuff of the remaining
glove at wrist. Do not touch any part of the
outside of glove.
53Removing (doffing) gloves
- 3. Pull down, turning this glove inside out and
over the first glove as you remove it. - 4. You should now be holding one glove from its
clean inner side and the other glove should be
inside it. - 5. Drop both gloves into the proper container
without contaminating yourself. - 6. Wash your hands.
546. Discuss the use of personal protective
equipment (PPE) in facilities
- The proper order for donning PPE is as follows
- Wash hands.
- Put on gown.
- Put on mask.
- Put on goggles or face shield.
- Put on gloves.
-
-
556. Discuss the use of personal protective
equipment (PPE) in facilities
- The proper order for doffing PPE is as follows
- Remove and discard gloves.
- Remove goggles or face shield.
- Remove and discard gown.
- Remove and discard mask.
- Wash hands.
-
-
567. List guidelines for handling equipment and
linen
- Define the following terms
- clean
- in health care, a condition in which objects are
not contaminated with pathogens. - dirty
- in health care, a condition in which objects have
been contaminated with pathogens. - disinfection
- process that kills pathogens, but not all
pathogens it reduces the pathogen count to a
level that is considered not infectious.
577. List guidelines for handling equipment and
linen
- Define the following terms
- sterilization
- a method used to decrease the spread of pathogens
and disease by destroying all microorganisms,
including those that form spores. - disposable
- only to be used once and then discarded.
587. List guidelines for handling equipment and
linen
- NAs should follow these guidelines regarding
equipment, linen, and clothing - Prevent skin/mucous membrane contact.
- Prevent contamination of clothing.
- Prevent transfer of disease to other residents
or environments. - Do not use reusable equipment until it has been
cleaned properly. - Dispose of all single-use equipment properly.
-
-
597. List guidelines for handling equipment and
linen
- Guidelines regarding equipment, linen, and
clothing (contd) - Clean and disinfect all environmental surfaces,
beds, bedrails, bedside equipment, and all
frequently touched surfaces (such as doorknobs
and call lights). - Handle, transport, and process soiled linens and
clothing in a way that prevents skin and mucous
membrane exposure, contamination of clothing
(hold linen away from uniform), and transfer of
disease to other residents and environments. - Bag soiled linen at point of origin.
- Sort soiled linen away from resident care areas.
- Place wet linen in leak-proof bags.
-
-
608. Explain how to handle spills
- NAs should follow these guidelines for cleaning
spills involving blood, body fluids, or glass - Put on gloves (industrial strength).
- Use proper product to absorb spill.
- Scoop up absorbed spill and dispose of it in
designated container. - Apply disinfectant.
- Use proper cleaning solution.
- Use tools, never hands, to pick up glass.
- Properly bag waste.
-
-
618. Explain how to handle spills
- REMEMBER
- It is important the absorb a spill and remove the
fluid before treating the area with disinfectant.
If the spilled fluid is not absorbed and removed
first, it may neutralize the disinfectant on
contact. -
-
629. Explain Transmission-Based Precautions
- Define the following terms
- Transmission-Based Precautions
- method of infection prevention used when caring
for persons who are infected or suspected of
being infected with a disease. - multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs)
- microorganisms, mostly bacteria, that are
resistant to one or more antimicrobial agents
that are commonly used for treatment.
639. Explain Transmission-Based Precautions
- REMEMBER
- Transmission-Based Precautions are always used in
addition to Standard Precautions. -
-
64Transparency 5-2 Airborne Diseases
659. Explain Transmission-Based Precautions
- Airborne diseases spread when pathogens are
transmitted through the air after being expelled.
The pathogens can remain floating for some time.
The following illnesses are caused by airborne
pathogens - Tuberculosis (TB)
- Measles
- Chicken pox
-
-
669. Explain Transmission-Based Precautions
- The following precautions can help prevent the
spread of airborne diseases - Using a face mask
- Wearing a gown
- Handwashing
- Proper ventilation
-
-
67Transparency 5-3 Droplet Diseases
689. Explain Transmission-Based Precautions
- Droplet diseases spread when pathogens are
transmitted through droplets in the air. The
droplets normally do not travel more than three
feet, but they may travel further. The following
illnesses are examples - Mumps
- Influenza
-
-
699. Explain Transmission-Based Precautions
- The following precautions can help prevent the
spread of droplet diseases - Using a face mask
- Covering nose and mouth when sneezing or coughing
- Handwashing
-
-
709. Explain Transmission-Based Precautions
- The CDC recommends the following measures (part
of Standard Precautions) to prevent the
transmission of respiratory illnesses in
healthcare settings - Alerts should be posted instructing patients and
visitors to inform staff of respiratory symptoms
and to practice respiratory hygiene/cough
etiquette, which includes - Cover noses/mouths with a tissue when coughing or
sneezing - Dispose of used tissues in nearest waste
container after use - Wash hands after contact with respiratory
secretions or contaminated objects
719. Explain Transmission-Based Precautions
- CDC measures for respiratory etiquette (contd)
- Healthcare facilities must make these items
available to staff, patients, and visitors - Tissues and no-touch receptacles for disposal
- Conveniently located hand rub dispensers and
handwashing supplies - During times of increased respiratory infections,
masks should be offered to anyone who is coughing
and coughing people encouraged to sit at least
three feet away from others. - Healthcare personnel should observe droplet
precautions, in addition to Standard Precautions,
when interacting with a patient with symptoms of
a respiratory infection. -
72Transparency 5-4 Contact Diseases
739. Explain Transmission-Based Precautions
- Contact diseases can be spread when an uninfected
person comes into contact with the skin, wound,
or infection of an infected person. The following
illnesses are spread by contact - Conjunctivitis (pink eye)
- Clostridium difficile
- Lice
- Scabies
-
-
749. Explain Transmission-Based Precautions
- The following precautions can help prevent the
spread of contact diseases - Using PPE
- Washing hands with antimicrobial soap
- Not touching infected surfaces without gloves
- Not touching uninfected surfaces with
contaminated gloves - Not sharing towels, linens, and clothing
- Using disposable equipment when possible
-
-
759. Explain Transmission-Based Precautions
- When isolation precautions are required, the NA
should remember these points - Transmission-Based Precautions always used in
addition to Standard Precautions - Nurses will set up the isolation unit.
- Use PPE as instructed. Do not wear PPE outside
residents room, and perform hand hygiene
following removal of PPE. -
769. Explain Transmission-Based Precautions
- Guidelines for isolation precautions (contd)
- Do not share equipment between residents.
- Wear proper PPE when serving food and drink.
- Follow Standard Precautions in dealing with
body waste removal. - Wear proper PPE required to take specimen.
- Reassure residents that the disease, not the
person, is being isolated. -
7710. Define bloodborne pathogens and describe two
major bloodborne diseases
- Define the following terms
- bloodborne pathogens
- microorganisms found in human blood, body fluid,
draining wounds, and mucous membranes that can
cause infection and disease in humans. - human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
- the virus that attacks the bodys immune system
and gradually disables it eventually can cause
AIDS. - hepatitis
- inflammation of the liver caused by certain
viruses and other factors, such as alcohol abuse,
some medications, and trauma.
7810. Define bloodborne pathogens and describe two
major bloodborne diseases
- Define the following terms
- jaundice
- a condition in which the skin, whites of the
eyes, and mucous membranes appear yellow.
7910. Define bloodborne pathogens and describe two
major bloodborne diseases
- Bloodborne diseases may be transmitted in the
following ways - Infected blood
- Infected semen or vaginal secretions contacting
mucous membranes - Sexual contact
- Needle sharing
- Infected mothers
- Contact with infected blood or certain other
body fluids in healthcare setting -
8010. Define bloodborne pathogens and describe two
major bloodborne diseases
- REMEMBER
- It is safe to touch and spend time with residents
who have bloodborne diseases. Residents with
these illnesses need the same thoughtful,
personal attention NAs give to all their
residents. -
8111. Explain OSHAs Bloodborne Pathogens Standard
- Define the following terms
- Bloodborne Pathogens Standard
- federal law that requires that healthcare
facilities protect employees from bloodborne
health hazards. - exposure control plan
- plan designed to eliminate or reduce employee
exposure to infectious material.
8211. Explain OSHAs Bloodborne Pathogens Standard
- The Bloodborne Pathogens Standard designates the
following as a significant exposure - Needle stick
- Mucous membrane contact
- Cut from an object containing potentially
infectious body fluid - Contact with non-intact skin
-
8311. Explain OSHAs Bloodborne Pathogens Standard
- Employers must take the following steps to
protect employees from bloodborne pathogens - Maintain a written exposure control plan
- Provide proper PPE
- Provide biohazard containers for disposal of
sharps and other infected waste - Offer free hepatitis B vaccine to employees
- Affix warning labels to waste containers,
refrigerators, and freezers that contain
potentially infectious material - Keep a log of injuries from contaminated sharps
- Provide in-service training on the Bloodborne
Pathogens Standard
8412. Define tuberculosis and list infection
prevention guidelines
- Define the following terms
- tuberculosis (TB)
- a highly contagious lung disease caused by a
bacterium that is carried on mucous droplets
suspended in the air. - latent TB infection
- type of tuberculosis in which the person carries
the disease but does not show symptoms and cannot
infect others. - TB disease
- type of tuberculosis in which the person shows
symptoms of the disease and can spread TB to
others.
8512. Define tuberculosis and list infection
prevention guidelines
- Define the following terms
- multidrug-resistant TB(MDR-TB)
- type of tuberculosis that can develop when a
person with TB disease does not take all the
prescribed medication. - resistant
- a state in which drugs no longer work to kill
specific bacteria. - phlegm
- thick mucus from the respiratory passage.
8612. Define tuberculosis and list infection
prevention guidelines
- NAs should be familiar with these signs and
symptoms of TB disease - Fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Slight fever and chills
- Night sweats
- Prolonged coughing
- Coughing up blood
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Trouble breathing
8712. Define tuberculosis and list infection
prevention guidelines
- When caring for residents with tuberculosis, NAs
should follow these guidelines - Follow Standard Precautions and Airborne
Precautions. - Wear PPE as instructed.
- Handle sputum or phlegm carefully.
- Ensure proper ventilation.
- If resident is in AIIR isolation room, open and
close door slowly. - Follow isolation procedures if ordered.
- Help resident remember to take medications.
8813. Discuss MRSA, VRE, and C. Difficile
- Define the following terms
- MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus
aureus) - an infection caused by specific bacterial that
have become resistant to many antibiotics. - Vancomycin-resistant enterococcus (VRE)
- bacteria (enterococci) that have developed
resistance to antibiotics as a result of being
exposed to vancomycin. - Clostridium difficile (C. diff, C. difficile)
- bacterial illness that can cause diarrhea and
colitis spread by spores in feces that are
difficult to kill.
8913. Discuss MRSA, VRE, and C. Difficile
- There are two types of MRSA
- Hospital-associated MRSA (HA-MRSA)
- Community-associated MRSA (CA-MRSA)
9013. Discuss MRSA, VRE, and C. Difficile
- REMEMBER
- MRSA can be spread by direct and indirect
contact. Handwashing is the single most important
measure to control the spread of MRSA.
9113. Discuss MRSA, VRE, and C. Difficile
- REMEMBER
- VRE can be spread by direct and indirect contact.
Prevention of VRE is very important, and proper
handwashing is an important part of prevention.
9213. Discuss MRSA, VRE, and C. Difficile
- C. Difficile is spread in the following ways
- By spores via direct contact
- When intestinal flora is altered due to enemas,
nasogastric tube, GI tract surgery, or overuse of
antibiotics
9313. Discuss MRSA, VRE, and C. Difficile
- REMEMBER
- Proper handwashing and proper handling of wastes
can help prevent C. Difficile. Soap and water
must be used each time hand hygiene is performed.
Disinfecting surfaces and limiting antibiotic use
can also help.
9414. List employer and employee responsibilities
for infection prevention
- The following are an employers responsibilities
regarding infection prevention - Establish procedures and exposure control
plan. - Provide in-service education.
- Have written procedures for exposures.
- Provide proper PPE.
- Provide HBV vaccination.
9514. List employer and employee responsibilities
for infection prevention
- The following are an employees responsibilities
regarding infection prevention - Follow Standard Precautions.
- Follow facilitys policies and procedures.
- Follow care plans and assignments.
- Use PPE.
- Take advantage of free hepatitis B vaccine.
- Report any exposure immediately.
- Participate in education programs.
96Exam
- Multiple Choice. Choose the correct answer.
- Infection prevention is
- (A) The way in which infections occur
- (B) An infection that is prevented from traveling
from one part of the body to another - (C) A set of methods used to prevent the spread
of disease - (D) An object that has been prevented from being
contaminated with pathogens - The following are necessary links in the chain of
infection. When an NA wears gloves, which link is
broken, thus preventing the spread of disease? - (A) Reservoir (place where the pathogen lives and
grows) - (B) Mode of transmission (a way for the disease
to spread) - (C) Susceptible host (person who is likely to get
the disease) - (D) Causative agent (pathogenic microorganism
that causes disease)
97Exam
- The following are necessary links in the chain of
infection. When an NA gets a vaccination shot for
hepatitis B, which link will be affected and thus
prevent hepatitis B infection? - (A) Reservoir (place where the pathogen lives and
grows) - (B) Mode of transmission (a way for the disease
to spread) - (C) Susceptible host (person who is likely to get
the disease) - (D) Portal of entry (body opening that allows
pathogens to enter) - A nursing assistant (NA) will come into contact
with microorganisms - (A) Only in high-traffic areas of the facility
- (B) Only during direct contact with residents
- (C) Only during personal care procedures
- (D) Every time the NA touches something
98Exam
- The single most important thing the NA can do to
prevent the spread of disease is to - (A) Carry dirty linen close to her uniform so as
not to spread contaminants - (B) Wash and dry her disposable gloves before
reusing them - (C) Remove gloves before cleaning spills
- (D) Wash her hands
- The elderly are at a higher risk of infection
because - (A) They have strong immune systems
- (B) They are rarely hospitalized
- (C) They are always well-nourished
- (D) They may have limited mobility
99Exam
- With whom should an NA use Standard Precautions?
- (A) With residents who have infectious diseases
- (B) With residents he suspects might have
infectious diseases - (C) With every resident in his care
- (D) With residents who request that they be used
- Under Standard Precautions, the term body
fluids includes - (A) Sweat
- (B) Water
- (C) Juice
- (D) Urine
100Exam
- Hand hygiene is
- (A) Washing hands with either plain or
antiseptic soap and water or using alcohol-based
hand rubs - (B) Washing hands with soap and water only
- (C) Using alcohol-based hand rubs only
- (D) Wearing gloves when performing care
procedures - When washing hands, an NA should use friction for
- (A) At least 25 seconds
- (B) At least 20 seconds
- (C) At least 15 seconds
- (D) At least 5 seconds
101Exam
- Which of the following is true of wearing gloves?
- (A) Disposable gloves can be washed and reused.
- (B) Gloves should be changed before contact with
mucous membranes. - (C) After giving care, gloves are not
contaminated. - (D) Gloves can continue to be worn if they are
torn as long as the hole is covered. - Which of the following is the proper order to don
PPE? - (A) Put on mask and goggles, gown, and gloves.
- (B) Put on gloves, gown, and mask and goggles.
- (C) Put on mask and goggles, gloves, and gown.
- (D) Put on gown, mask and goggles, and gloves.
102Exam
- Which of the following statements is true of
disinfection? - (A) Disinfecting an item means that all pathogens
on the item are destroyed. - (B) Disinfection is carried out with an
autoclave. - (C) Disinfection kills some pathogens but not all
of them. - (D) Disinfection can be accomplished with regular
soap and cold water. - If an NA needs to clean up a spill, what is the
first step that she should take? - (A) Put the waste directly into the nearest trash
can. - (B) Spray bleach solution on the spill.
- (C) Put on gloves.
- (D) Vacuum the spill.
103Exam
- Which of the following is true of
Transmission-Based Precautions? - (A) An NA does not need to practice Standard
Precautions if he practices Transmission-Based
Precautions. - (B) They are exactly the same as Standard
Precautions. - (C) They are practiced in addition to Standard
Precautions. - (D) They will not be listed in the care plan so
as not to alarm anyone. - What is one way that bloodborne pathogens can be
transmitted? - (A) By hugging an infected person
- (B) By contact with blood or body fluids
- (C) By standing too close to an infected person
when he coughs - (D) By touching something an infected person has
touched
104Exam
- Which of the following statements is true of
hepatitis B (HBV)? - (A) HBV is a relatively minor disease and poses
no real threat to healthcare workers. - (B) The vaccine for HBV helps prevent the
disease. - (C) More people in the U.S. have HIV than have
HBV. - (D) HBV causes some unpleasant symptoms but
cannot cause death. - The Bloodborne Pathogen Standard requires that
- (A) Employers educate a select group of employees
who will be in contact with residents with
bloodborne diseases - (B) Employers provide hepatitis B vaccinations to
employees at a reduced cost - Employers keep one set of personal protective
equipment on hand for visitors to use - Employers have an exposure control plan
105Exam
- Tuberculosis may be transmitted
- (A) Through a protective mask
- (B) By dancing
- (C) By wearing gloves
- (D) By coughing
- Tuberculosis is
- (A) A bloodborne disease
- (B) A sexually transmitted disease
- (C) An airborne disease
- (D) Completely eradicated (no longer exists)
106Exam
- A person with TB disease
- (A) Can spread it to others
- (B) Does not show symptoms
- (C) Cannot infect others
- (D) Has what is called latent TB
- How is MRSA most often spread?
- (A) By direct physical contact
- (B) By indirect contact
- (C) By being in enclosed spaces
- (D) Through the air
107Exam
- What is the best way to control the spread of
MRSA? - (A) By taking medication
- (B) Through proper handwashing
- (C) By using masks
- (D) By taking vancomycin
- What is the best way to control the spread of C.
difficile? - (A) By limiting contact of the infected person
with others - (B) By using more powerful antibiotics
- (C) By giving more enemas to clean out the GI
tract - (D) Through proper handwashing and handling of
contaminated wastes
108Exam
- Which of the following is an NA responsibility
related to infection prevention? - (A) Deciding which residents need
Transmission-Based Precautions - (B) Telling all visitors which patients have
bloodborne diseases - (C) Following Standard Precautions in caring for
all residents - (D) Capping needles and other sharps before
disposing of them in the trash