The principle routes of transmission of nosocomial infections
Lou had abdominal surgery. During his stay at the hospital a catheter was inserted into his bladder. After returning home Lou was diagnosed with a nosocomial infection. What are the principle routes of transmission of nosocomial infections? What can be done to prevent nosocomial infections? What are three reasons why rates of nosocomial infections are markedly higher in developing countries? What are five things that increase the risk of nosocomial infection?
The principle routes of transmission of nosocomial infections
Nosocomial infections, that develop as a result of a stay in hospital or are produced by micro-organisms and viruses acquired during hospitalization. They can survive for a long time on surfaces in the hospital and they enter the body through wounds, catheters, and ventilators. The most important and frequent mode of transmission of nosocomial infections is by direct conduct. Nurses play a pivotal role in preventing hospital-acquired infections. Irrigating cutaneous wounds thoroughly between dressing changes, debriding necrotic material effectively and dressing a wound appropriately to absorb exudates, are all ways in which nurses can protect patients from nosocomial infections.
