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airborne precautions
use of protective devices that reduce the spread of airborne droplet transmission of infectious agents such as rubeola, varicella, and Mycobacterium tuberculosis. TERM 2
antiseptics
DEFINITION 2 chemicals (e.g., 70% isopropyl alcohol, iodine, chlorhexidine, chlorine, hexachlorophene, chlorooxylenol, quarternary ammonium compounds, and triclosan) used to clean human skin by inhibiting the growth of microorganisms. TERM 3
asepsis
DEFINITION 3 Asepsis is the state of being free from disease-causing contaminants (such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites). TERM 4
aseptic techniques
DEFINITION 4 a degree of cleanliness that prevents infection and the growth of microorganisms. The technique to achieve this condition includes frequent handwashing, use of barrier garments and personal protective equipment (PPE), waste management of contaminated materials, use of cleaning solutions, following standard precautions, and using sterile procedures when necessary. TERM 5
blood borne pathogens (BBP)
DEFINITION 5 pathogenic microorganisms, including Hepatitis B virus and human immunodeficiency virus, that are present in human blood and can cause disease in humans.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
(CDC)
federal agency responsible for monitoring morbidity (disease) and mortality (death) throughout the country. TERM 7
chain of
infection
DEFINITION 7 the process by which infections are transmitted, components include the source of the infection (nonsterile items, contaminated equipment or supplies, etc.), the mode of transmission (direct contact, airborne, medical instruments, etc.), and the susceptible host (patient). TERM 8
communicable disease
DEFINITION 8 category of diseases resulting from the transmission of infectious microorganisms to individuals by direct or indirect contact or as an airborne infection TERM 9
contact precautions
DEFINITION 9 protective measures that reduce the risk of transmission of serious diseases such as respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), herpes simplex, wound infections, and others through direct or indirect contact. TERM 10
disinfectants
DEFINITION 10 chemical compounds used to remove or kill pathogenic microorganisms; typically used on medical instruments or countertops.
infection control programs
guidelines designed to address surveillance, reporting, isolation procedures, education, and management of community-acquired and health-care associated infections. TERM 17
Intensive care unit (ICU)
DEFINITION 17 area where patients are more critically ill, require additional monitoring, and more susceptible to infections. TERM 18
isolation procedures
DEFINITION 18 methods used to protect individuals (health care workers) from patients with infectious diseases. Formally divided into two types (category-specific and disease-specific), newer guidelines combine isolation practices for moist and potentially infectious body substances, to be used for all patients. The new categories of isolation are based on the mode of transmission and include airborne, droplet, and contact precautions. TERM 19
mode of transmission
DEFINITION 19 refers to the method by which pathogenic agents are transmitted (e.g., direct contact, air, medical instruments, other objects, and other vectors). TERM 20
Occupational Safety and Health
Administration (OSHA)
DEFINITION 20 an agency of the U.S. Department of Labor requiring employers to provide a safe work environment including measures to protect workers exposed to biological and occupational hazards. OSHA is also responsible for responding to complaints, monitoring employer practices, and imposing sanctions (fines and closure) on employers who are non compliant.
percutaneous
through the skin TERM 22
permucosal
DEFINITION 22 through the mucous membranes of the mouth, eye, and nose. TERM 23
protective (reverse) isolation
DEFINITION 23 precautionary measures and procedures designed to protect patients who are particularly susceptible or at increased risk of acquiring infections (e.g., patients with low WBC counts (neutropenic or leukopenic), patients with burns, and/or immunosuppressed patients). TERM 24
source
DEFINITION 24 the orgin of an infection (e.g., human hands, lab coats, or other clothing, contaminated medical instruments, etc.). TERM 25
standard precautions
DEFINITION 25 a set of safeguards designed to reduce the risk of transmission of microorganisms; guidelines apply to all patients and all body fluids, nonintact skin, and mucous membranes and include the use of barrier protection (protective equipment such as gloves, gowns, etc.), hand hygiene, and proper use and disposal of needles and other sharps. Standard precautions are more comprehensive than "Universal Precautions" which apply only to transmission of bloodborne pathogens. Policies must comply with OSHA Standards. Standard Precautions and Universal Precautions are available from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
