SNLE Infection Control 3

Question 1

What is 'healthcare-associated infection' (HAI)?

Accepted Answer

An infection acquired in a healthcare setting, not present on admission, occurring after 48 hours

Answer

HAIs (nosocomial infections) are infections not present or incubating at admission, typically developing ≥48 hours after admission or within 30 days of healthcare exposure. Common HAIs include CLABSI, CAUTI, VAP, SSI. They are largely preventable through evidence-based bundles.

Question 2

What are the components of the 'CLABSI bundle' to prevent central line infections?

Accepted Answer

Hand hygiene, maximal barrier precautions, chlorhexidine skin antisepsis, optimal site selection, daily line review

Answer

The CLABSI prevention bundle (from the Institute for Healthcare Improvement): hand hygiene, maximal sterile barrier precautions during insertion (cap, mask, gown, gloves, large sterile drape), chlorhexidine 2% skin preparation, optimal catheter site selection (subclavian preferred), and daily assessment of line necessity with prompt removal.

Question 3

Which pathogen is the most common cause of catheter-associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI)?

Accepted Answer

Escherichia coli (E. coli)

Answer

E. coli from the perineal/fecal flora is the most common cause of CAUTI, accounting for approximately 25–30% of cases. The urinary catheter provides a pathway for ascending infection. CAUTI prevention focuses on catheter necessity, aseptic insertion, and early removal.

Question 4

What is the purpose of an autoclave in healthcare?

Accepted Answer

To sterilize heat-resistant instruments using pressurized steam at high temperature

Answer

Autoclaves use pressurized saturated steam (typically 121°C at 15 psi for 15–20 minutes, or 134°C for faster cycles) to achieve sterilization by denaturation of microbial proteins. It is the gold standard for sterilizing heat/moisture-stable instruments.

Question 5

A patient is diagnosed with VRE (vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus). What precautions are implemented?

Accepted Answer

Contact precautions: gloves and gown for all patient contact, dedicated equipment, private room if possible

Answer

VRE is transmitted by direct contact and contaminated surfaces. Contact precautions prevent further spread. Dedicated patient equipment (stethoscope, blood pressure cuff) prevents cross-transmission. Environmental cleaning with appropriate disinfectant is critical.

SNLE Practice Test

SNLE Practice Test

SNLE Infection Control 3