Subsequent fungal infection can be the result of introduction of the pathogen by contaminated fluids, equipment, or cross-infection or from colonized hands of clinicians.Ī case in point deals with a neonate who was respiratory compromised and in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) receiving IV fluids. Another frequently found and considered almost-normal flora found on body surfaces is a fungus, Candida albicans.
#Compare medical asepsis and surgical asepsis skin
Although these microorganisms reside on the skin the majority of the time, they usually do not become pathogens until they enter the bloodstream or a body cavity. Other pathogens or common microorganisms responsible for nosocomial infections are Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, enterococci, and staphylococci with Staphylococcus epidermis responsible for many infections. This pathogen is found on many surfaces of the clinical environment and on pieces of equipment. The staphylococcal bacteria Staphylococcus aureus are frequently found on the skin and are often the cause of infections that enter the body through the catheter lumen or the outside of the catheter. The skin harbors numerous pathogens and nonpathogens. Additionally, they must be aware of any signs of possible systemic reaction, such as hives, difficulty breathing, or other signs of allergic reaction. The clinician must constantly observe the site where the iodine preparation was applied for any local reaction, such as itching or a rash at the site.
Prior to use, the patient must be questioned about the incidence of any reaction, local or systemic, to iodine and evaluate these reactions, if applicable. Caution must be exercised when using iodine preparations on patients because many individuals are allergic to iodine. Examples of antiseptics are 70% isopropyl alcohol, iodine preparations, and chlorhexidine gluconate. Additionally, they may be used as cleansing agents. These products can be applied to skin and mucous membranes. Antiseptics interfere with cellular metabolism, thus preventing survival and replication. When using these solutions, the health care provider should take protective skin precautions such as wearing gloves and using splash protection equipment.Īntiseptics tend to inhibit the growth and reproduction of microorganisms however, they do not completely kill microorganisms. Examples of disinfectants are full-strength household bleach, phenol, and formaldehyde. Their intended action is to kill microorganisms on inanimate objects such as equipment, environmental surroundings, and supplies. As a result of the chemical strength, disinfectants are usually not used on skin or mucous membranes.
Often referred to as germicides or bactericides, these products kill living and active microorganisms. They do not have the capability of killing bacterial spores. This can be accomplished by the use of disinfectants and antiseptic preparations.ĭisinfectants are chemical preparations used to kill or eliminate pathogens from objects. Additionally, the type of microorganism and its state of mutation for antibiotic resistance are involved in the progression or arresting of an infection.Īltering the conditions that allow pathogens to live, multiply, and spread eliminates infectious pathogens. Other factors that may affect the incidence of infection in a patient include natural defenses against infection such as an intact skin, a functional immune system, and the person’s general state of good health (or homeostasis). Compliance with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) guidelines and Universal Precautions also contribute to initiating and maintaining infection control. Handwashing/hand hygiene, medical asepsis, and sterile technique all play a part in infection control. Infection control is a major factor in patient safety with intravenous (IV) therapy. Using sterile technique to use methods to kill all microorganisms in a given situation.
Infection acquired in health care setting.īeing exposed to harmful microorganisms or other harmful factors through employment. Occurrence when the clinician is exposed to a potent bloodborne pathogen from body fluids.Ĭlean techniques to decrease pathogens to reduce the incidence of cross-contamination also known as the clean technique. Microorganisms capable of causing disease in humans and transmitted in human blood.
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