Infection Prevention & Control Flashcards
6 cards from real NMC OSCE practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Infection Prevention & Control flashcards as text
MRSA stands for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. A patient screens positive for MRSA on admission. What precautions are required?
Answer: Contact precautions: side room, apron and gloves for contact with patient/environment
MRSA is transmitted primarily by direct and indirect contact. Contact precautions require isolating the patient in a side room where possible, using a disposable apron and gloves for all contact with the patient and their immediate environment, and strict hand hygiene.
What is the purpose of a care bundle in infection prevention?
Answer: A set of evidence-based practices that, when performed together, improve patient outcomes more than individually
A care bundle is a small set of evidence-based interventions that, when performed consistently and together, significantly improve patient outcomes. Examples include the central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) bundle and the ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) bundle.
How long should a peripheral IV cannula site be assessed daily for signs of phlebitis?
Answer: Every 24 hours using a standardised phlebitis score
Peripheral IV cannula sites should be assessed at least once every 24 hours using a validated phlebitis scoring tool (e.g., Visual Infusion Phlebitis score). Regular assessment allows early identification of infection or chemical phlebitis before complications develop.
A patient with Clostridium difficile infection is in a side room. A visitor asks if they can use the ward toilet. What is the correct response?
Answer: Advise the visitor to use a separate toilet and wash hands with soap and water
C. difficile can contaminate the environment extensively via spores. Visitors should use separate toilet facilities where possible and must wash hands with soap and water (not alcohol rub) as spores are resistant to alcohol. Environmental contamination control is key.
What does the term 'source isolation' mean?
Answer: Placing a patient with an infectious condition in a single room to prevent spread to others
Source isolation (barrier nursing) involves placing an infectious patient in a single room with a closed door to contain the infection. It aims to prevent spread from the source (the infected patient) to others, using appropriate PPE and strict hand hygiene.
A nurse has been off work with norovirus. When is it safe to return to clinical practice?
Answer: 48 hours after the last episode of vomiting or diarrhoea
The standard guideline for return to work after norovirus is 48 hours after the last episode of vomiting or diarrhoea. This reduces the risk of transmitting infection to vulnerable patients. Stool sample clearance is not routinely required for norovirus.