Infection Control and Safety Flashcards

What does the term 'sterile field' mean in clinical practice?

Answer: A designated area free from all microorganisms including spores

A sterile field is maintained entirely free of all microorganisms and spores to prevent surgical site infections.

Which infection control measure is MOST effective at preventing the spread of healthcare-associated infections?

Answer: Consistent and proper hand hygiene

Hand hygiene is the single most important and effective measure to prevent the transmission of healthcare-associated infections.

Autoclaving achieves sterilization through which mechanism?

Answer: Pressurized steam at high temperature

Autoclaves use pressurized steam (typically 121°C at 15 psi) to denature proteins and destroy all microorganisms including spores.

Which of the following is an example of a fomite in infection transmission?

Answer: A stethoscope

A fomite is any inanimate object that can harbor and transmit microorganisms, such as a stethoscope or blood pressure cuff.

When performing a surgical hand scrub, the minimum scrub time recommended is typically:

Answer: 5–10 minutes per the facility protocol, usually at least 3 minutes

Surgical hand scrubs require a minimum of 3–5 minutes (per facility protocol) to reduce the transient and resident flora significantly.

Which federal agency establishes the standards for bloodborne pathogen exposure control in healthcare workplaces?

Answer: OSHA

OSHA's Bloodborne Pathogens Standard (29 CFR 1910.1030) mandates workplace protections for employees exposed to blood and body fluids.