Hospital Acquired Infections

Question 1

What is a healthcare infection?

Answer 1

Infections arising as a consequence of providing healthcare

Question 2

Outline the range of HAIs and the most prevalent type

Answer 2

20% UTIs, pneumonia, surgical wound infections skin/soft tissue, primary bloodstream, 21% GI, other

Question 3

Describe the principles of antibiotic resistance

Answer 3

Incorrect use = overuse, misuse = driving force for the devel of Abx resistance

Question 4

What factors make a pt more vulnerable to HAIs?

Answer 4

Extremes of age, 
obesity/malnourishment, 
DM, 
cancer, 
immunosuppression, 
smoker, 
surgical patient, 
emergency admission

Question 5

Describe principles relating to infection prevention and control in a hospital setting

Answer 5

4 Ps =

Pt: interactions with other people, side rooms, quarantine, protection of susceptible pts.

Pathogen: virulence factors, interactions with other bacteria/Abx/disinfectants.

Practice: activities of health workers, policies.

Place: environment, space, layout toilets, wash hand basins, decontamination

Question 6

Describe the use of Personal Protective Equipment with regard to infections in a hospital setting

Answer 6

specialized clothing or equipment, worn by an employee for protection against infectious materials = gloves, marks, gowns, use once items

Question 7

Outline the global concerns relating to HAIs and drug resistance.

Answer 7

prolonged stays = costs, impact on health, opportunity costs, long-term disability, increased Abx resistance, death,