Infection Control & Prevention Flashcards
7 cards from real DHA practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Infection Control & Prevention flashcards as text
Which of the following pathogens requires airborne precautions (negative pressure room + N95 respirator)?
Answer: Pulmonary tuberculosis
Pulmonary tuberculosis is transmitted via small airborne droplet nuclei that remain suspended in air, requiring airborne precautions and N95 respirators.
The Spaulding classification categorizes medical devices to determine the level of disinfection or sterilization needed. Which category applies to a laryngoscope blade?
Answer: Semi-critical — requires high-level disinfection
Laryngoscope blades contact mucous membranes but do not penetrate sterile tissue, classifying them as semi-critical and requiring at minimum high-level disinfection.
A multidrug-resistant organism (MDRO) outbreak is suspected on a ward. Which initial action is MOST appropriate by the infection control team?
Answer: Conduct a point prevalence survey and review microbiology data
Investigating an MDRO outbreak begins with a point prevalence survey and review of microbiology culture data to identify the scope and source.
Which of the following correctly describes 'colonization' in infection control terminology?
Answer: Presence of a pathogen without causing clinical signs or symptoms
Colonization means a pathogen is present and multiplying on or in the host without causing clinical disease or an immune response.
Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) related to central venous catheters (CVCs) can be reduced by implementing a bundle approach. Which element is NOT part of the standard CVC insertion bundle?
Answer: Routine scheduled catheter changes every 72 hours
Evidence does not support routine scheduled CVC changes; catheters should be removed when no longer clinically necessary, not on a fixed schedule.
In the chain of infection, which link is targeted when a patient with active pulmonary tuberculosis is placed in a negative pressure isolation room?
Answer: Mode of transmission
Placing the patient in a negative pressure room interrupts the airborne mode of transmission by containing droplet nuclei and preventing their spread to others.
According to standard precautions, when should a healthcare worker wear a mask and eye protection during patient care?
Answer: Whenever there is a risk of splashing or spraying of blood, body fluids, or secretions
Standard precautions require mask and eye protection whenever there is a reasonable anticipation of splashes or sprays of blood, body fluids, secretions, or excretions.