CBIC Surveillance 4

Question 1

Which of the following best describes 'syndromic surveillance'?

Accepted Answer

Monitoring of pre-diagnostic clinical indicators to detect outbreaks early

Answer

Syndromic surveillance monitors clinical syndromes and symptoms before definitive diagnoses are made, enabling earlier outbreak detection.

Question 2

A hospital implements a new central line bundle. To evaluate its impact, the IP should compare CLABSI rates:

Accepted Answer

Before and after bundle implementation using control charts

Answer

Control charts allow the IP to compare pre- and post-intervention rates over time, distinguishing true improvement from random variation.

Question 3

Which NHSN event type covers infections related to implanted devices such as cardiac pacemakers?

Accepted Answer

Cardiovascular system infection (VASC)

Answer

NHSN's cardiovascular system infection (VASC) module covers infections related to implanted vascular devices including pacemakers.

Question 4

During outbreak investigation, the epidemic curve is primarily used to:

Accepted Answer

Determine the mode and timing of transmission

Answer

The epidemic curve's shape and timeline help identify the mode of transmission (common source vs. propagated) and approximate exposure time.

Question 5

Which of the following is a limitation of using administrative (billing/ICD) data for HAI surveillance?

Accepted Answer

It may not capture all clinically confirmed HAIs

Answer

Administrative data relies on coding accuracy and may miss HAIs not coded or miscoded, making it less reliable than clinical surveillance.

CBIC - Certification Board of Infection Control Practice Test