Hand Hygiene

Question 1

Define colonisation

Answer 1

The sustained presence of replicating microorganisms on or in the body without the production of an immune response (infection) or disease, and is a potential source of transmission.

Question 2

Define infection.

Answer 2

The successful transmission of microorganisms to the host with subsequent multiplication, colonisation and invasion. Infection may be clinical or subclinical and may not produce identifiable disease

Question 3

Who is most vulnerable to colonisation?

Answer 3

Patients with underlying medical conditions, those who have had a recent surgery or have indwelling devices.