Infection Prevention Flashcards

Which hand hygiene product is most effective against Clostridium difficile (C. diff) spores?

Answer: Plain soap and water

Soap and water with vigorous friction is required for C. difficile because alcohol-based hand rubs do not effectively remove or destroy its spores.

What does the term 'sterilization' mean in infection control?

Answer: Elimination of all forms of microbial life, including spores

Sterilization destroys all forms of microbial life, including highly resistant bacterial spores, which distinguishes it from disinfection and cleaning.

A patient is placed on droplet precautions. What is the minimum distance at which a healthcare worker does NOT need to wear a surgical mask?

Answer: 3 feet

Droplet precautions require a surgical mask when within 3 feet of the patient, as large respiratory droplets typically do not travel beyond that distance.

Which of the following is an example of a reservoir in the chain of infection?

Answer: A contaminated water supply

A reservoir is the habitat where the infectious agent lives and multiplies; a contaminated water supply is a classic environmental reservoir.

Standard precautions apply to which patients?

Answer: All patients regardless of diagnosis or infection status

Standard precautions apply to all patients in all healthcare settings regardless of their diagnosis or presumed infection status.

Which intervention is MOST effective in preventing central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs)?

Answer: Performing daily assessment of line necessity and prompt removal

Daily assessment of the necessity of a central line and prompt removal when no longer needed is the most effective strategy for preventing CLABSI.

What does the acronym PPE stand for in infection control?

Answer: Personal Protective Equipment

PPE stands for Personal Protective Equipment, which includes gloves, gowns, masks, and eye protection used to protect healthcare workers from exposure to infectious agents.