Chapter 5

Infection prevention is

• The way in which infections occur

• An infection that is prevented from traveling from one part of the body to another

• A set of methods used to prevent the spread of disease

• 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?

• Reservoir (place where the pathogen lives and grows)

• Mode of transmission (a way for the disease to spread)

• Susceptible host (person who is likely to get the disease)

• Causative agent (pathogenic microorganism that causes disease)

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?

• Reservoir (place where the pathogen lives and grows)

• Mode of transmission (a way for the disease to spread)

• Susceptible host (person who is likely to get the disease)

• Portal of entry (body opening that allows pathogens to enter)

A nursing assistant will come into contact with microorganisms

• Only in high-traffic areas of the facility

• Only during direct contact with residents

• Only during personal care procedures

• Every time the NA touches something

The single most important thing the NA can do to prevent the spread of disease is to

• Carry dirty linen close to her uniform so as not to spread contaminants

• Wash and dry her disposable gloves before reusing them

• Remove gloves before cleaning spills

• Wash her hands

The elderly are at a higher risk of infection because

• They have strong immune systems

• They are rarely hospitalized

• They are always well-nourished

• They may have limited mobility

With whom should an NA use Standard Precautions?

• With residents who have infectious diseases

• With residents he suspects might have infectious diseases

• With every resident in his care

• With residents who request that they be used

Under Standard Precautions, the term body fluids includes

• Sweat

• Water

• Juice

• Urine

Hand hygiene is

• Washing hands with either plain or antiseptic soap and water or using alcohol based hand rubs

• Washing hands with soap and water only

• Using alcohol-based hand rubs only

• Wearing gloves when performing care procedures

When washing hands, an NA should use friction for

• At least 25 seconds

• At least 20 seconds

• At least 15 seconds

• At least 5 seconds