Infection Control & Prevention Flashcards

Which disease is caused by inhaling aerosolized water droplets containing bacteria from poorly maintained hot tubs?

Answer: Legionnaires' disease

Legionella is spread by breathing in mist or vapor from contaminated warm water.

A therapist notices cloudy pool water and no measurable chlorine. What is the correct response?

Answer: Close the pool, correct chemistry, and retest before reopening

Inadequate disinfectant creates infection risk, so the pool must be closed until levels are corrected.

Which of the following is the correct sequence for donning and doffing PPE to prevent self-contamination?

Answer: Remove gloves first, then perform hand hygiene, then remove gown

Gloves are the most contaminated item, so they are removed first, followed by hand hygiene and the other PPE.

Which patient condition is a typical contraindication to aquatic therapy because of infection risk?

Answer: Open draining wound that cannot be sealed

Uncontained draining wounds risk contaminating the water and the wound itself.

What is the main reason a tracheostomy or feeding tube site must be protected for immersion?

Answer: It prevents water entering the airway or site, introducing infection

Pool water entering these sites can introduce bacteria and cause aspiration or infection.

What does the term 'biofilm' refer to in pools and spas?

Answer: A layer of bacteria in a protective slime on surfaces, including pipes

Biofilms shelter pathogens like Legionella and Pseudomonas from disinfectants.

A patient reports vomiting during a session. What is the appropriate action?

Answer: Close the pool, remove the vomit, and follow facility fecal/vomit incident procedures including disinfection

Vomit is a possible norovirus source, so the pool is cleared and treated per CDC-based protocol.