Infection Control & Prevention Flashcards

A formed stool is observed in the pool. According to CDC guidance, what should be done first?

Answer: Close the pool, remove the stool with a scoop or net, and disinfect the scoop

The pool is closed, the feces removed, and the equipment disinfected before raising chlorine as directed.

What is the CDC hyperchlorination target for a diarrheal fecal incident to inactivate Cryptosporidium?

Answer: 20 ppm for about 12.75 hours

Diarrheal incidents require 20 ppm free chlorine for roughly 12.75 hours because of Cryptosporidium.

Which of the following is a hazard of high combined chlorine (chloramines) in a therapy pool?

Answer: Eye and respiratory irritation and reduced disinfection

Chloramines cause irritation, the 'chlorine smell,' and are weaker disinfectants than free chlorine.

Plantar warts and athlete's foot are commonly spread in aquatic facilities by:

Answer: Contact with contaminated wet floors and locker room surfaces

Fungi and the wart virus spread on damp surfaces, so footwear on decks and in locker rooms is advised.

Which patient is at highest risk of serious complications from waterborne infection and needs careful screening?

Answer: A patient on immunosuppressive therapy after transplant

Immunosuppressed patients can develop prolonged, severe Cryptosporidium and other infections.

Which supplemental treatment, used with chlorine, helps inactivate chlorine-resistant Cryptosporidium?

Answer: Ultraviolet (UV) disinfection

UV and ozone systems provide a second barrier that effectively inactivates Cryptosporidium.

Reusable therapy equipment such as kickboards and noodles should be:

Answer: Cleaned and disinfected between patients per policy and manufacturer instructions

Shared equipment can transmit pathogens, so cleaning and disinfection between uses is needed.