health care associated infections. Flashcards
general definition for a health care associated infection
happens more than 48 hours after being in the hospital.
T/F: 85% of health care associated infections are associated with devices
true
what is the number 1 organism which causes HAI’s?
C. dif
define a health care associated infection
infection that is acquired in a hospital or healthcare facility, “nosocomial” - in acute care
- not present at admission
- most bacterial infections, onset of symptoms>48 hrs after admission
- symptoms may not present until after discharge.
describe 3 measures to prevent health care associated infections
- ask everyday: do we need this catheter?
- ask: do we (still) need this antibiotic?
- perform hand hygiene every time you touch the patient’s environment or body.
most common pathogen on hands of ICU staff
staph aureus - 21% of hands
which is better at reducing bacteria on hands - alcohol or handwashing?
-alcohol
T/F: 85% of HAIs are associated with central lines
true!
mortality is 15-25% for central line infections.
risk factors for HAI bloodstream infection
- central venous catheter use = #1!!
- age 60
- malnutrition
- immunosuppressive therapy
- ICU stay
- loss of skin integrity
best vein for central lines
subclavian = lowest risk of infection
3 biggest risk factors for C dif
- age
- antibiotic therapy
- use of PPI’s or H2 blockers. (decrease acid - this increases risk of C dif)
T/F: alcohol hand cleaner must be used to get rid of C dif.
FALSE. alcohol based hand cleaners do not eliminate spores! wash with soap and water.
most common and second most common nosocomial infections
pneumonia, followed by surgical site infection.
most frequent org in pneumonia and surgical site infections
staph aureus.
3 main risk factors for catheter associated UTI (CAUTI)
- long catheterization
- disconnectoin of drainage system
- lower professional training of inserter
