Editing Infection Control and Safety – LPN Flashcards (section)

== Basics of Infection ==

;What are the six links in the chain of infection?
:Infectious agent, reservoir, portal of exit, mode of transmission, portal of entry, and susceptible host. Breaking '''one link''' stops the infection.
;What is the single most effective way to prevent the spread of infection?
:'''Hand hygiene.''' On an exam, look hard at hand hygiene before choosing any other option.
;Name the signs of a '''localized''' infection.
:'''Redness, warmth, swelling, pain, and purulent drainage''' at one site, sometimes with loss of function.
;Name the signs of a '''systemic''' infection.
:'''Fever, chills, increased heart rate and respiratory rate, malaise, and an elevated white blood cell count.''' Report these to the registered nurse.
;How might infection look in an older adult?
:It may show up as '''new confusion, a fall, poor appetite, new incontinence, or unusual sleepiness with little or no fever'''. Report any of these to the registered nurse.
;Which clients are most at risk for infection?
:The very young and very old, and clients who are '''immunosuppressed, malnourished, diabetic, postoperative, or have any invasive device''' such as an intravenous line, urinary catheter, drain, or breathing tube.