Infection Control & Sanitation Flashcards

What is the primary goal of infection control in healthcare transportation?

Answer: To maintain hygiene and prevent cross-contamination

The primary goal of infection control in healthcare transportation is to maintain hygiene and prevent cross-contamination between patients, staff, and the environment. Transport equipment can harbor pathogens, so rigorous cleaning and disinfection protocols are essential. This protects vulnerable patients from acquiring healthcare-associated infections.

What is the recommended procedure for cleaning transport equipment after patient use?

Answer: Disinfect equipment using hospital-grade disinfectants

The recommended procedure for cleaning transport equipment after patient use is to disinfect it using hospital-grade disinfectants. This ensures that all surfaces are thoroughly sanitized, eliminating bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens. Proper disinfection is critical for preventing the spread of infections and maintaining a safe environment for subsequent patients.

Why should gloves be worn during patient transport?

Answer: To prevent contact with potentially infectious bodily fluids

Gloves are a crucial component of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) in healthcare settings. Their primary purpose during patient transport is to create a barrier, preventing healthcare workers from coming into direct contact with potentially infectious bodily fluids such as blood, vomit, or secretions. This practice is essential for minimizing the risk of pathogen transmission and protecting both the patient and the transporter from infection.

What should be done if a patient vomits during transport?

Answer: Clean the area immediately, dispose of waste properly, and disinfect equipment

If a patient vomits during transport, immediate action is critical for infection control and patient safety. Cleaning the area promptly, properly disposing of contaminated waste in biohazard bags, and disinfecting all affected equipment prevents the spread of pathogens. This rapid response minimizes exposure risks for both the patient and healthcare personnel, maintaining a hygienic environment.

What is the primary method of controlling infection transmission via transport vehicles?

Answer: Cleaning the transport vehicle regularly with disinfectants

Regular cleaning and disinfection of transport vehicles are the primary methods for controlling infection transmission. Surfaces in these vehicles can become contaminated with pathogens from patients, acting as fomites. Thoroughly cleaning with appropriate disinfectants breaks the chain of infection by eliminating microorganisms, thereby preventing cross-contamination between patients and protecting healthcare workers.

What is the role of hand hygiene in infection control?

Answer: Hand hygiene should be performed before and after patient transport

Hand hygiene is a cornerstone of infection control, significantly reducing the spread of microorganisms. Performing hand hygiene both before and after patient transport is crucial because it prevents the transfer of pathogens to the patient and removes any acquired pathogens from the healthcare worker's hands. This practice adheres to standard precautions and protects both patients and staff from healthcare-associated infections.

What should be done if you suspect a healthcare worker has not followed proper infection control procedures?

Answer: Report the concern to a supervisor for further investigation

If you suspect a healthcare worker has not followed proper infection control procedures, it is your professional responsibility to report the concern to a supervisor. This ensures that the issue can be investigated appropriately and corrective actions can be taken, if necessary. Reporting through the proper channels helps maintain patient safety and uphold the facility's infection control standards.

What is the recommended procedure for disposing of contaminated materials?

Answer: Place contaminated materials in biohazard bags for safe disposal

Contaminated materials, such as those soiled with blood or bodily fluids, pose a significant infection risk. The recommended procedure is to place these materials in designated biohazard bags, which are clearly marked for safe and specialized disposal. This practice prevents the spread of pathogens, protects waste handlers, and ensures compliance with strict medical waste regulations.

What is the importance of environmental cleaning in infection control?

Answer: It helps to maintain a safe, clean environment for patients and staff

Environmental cleaning is vital in infection control because it removes and inactivates pathogens from surfaces and equipment in healthcare settings. A clean environment reduces the reservoir of microorganisms, thereby minimizing the risk of transmission to patients and staff. This practice directly contributes to patient safety, reduces healthcare-associated infections, and promotes overall well-being.