Infection Control

Question 1

What is an infection?

Answer 1

A disease caused by harmful microbes (pathogens).

Infections occur when harmful microbes (pathogens) grow inside the body and cause illness.

CNA Insight: Your job is to break the chain of infection. Assume every resident has a microbe that can cause harm, and practice Standard Precautions (handwashing, gloves) with everyone.

Question 2

List the SIX links in the chain of infection.

Answer 2

1. Pathogen
2. Reservoir
3. Portal of exit
4. Method of transmission
5. Portal of entry
6. Susceptible host

Breaking any link in the chain can prevent infection. You are the most important person for breaking the chain at the Method of Transmission link. Your best tool for this is hand hygiene (washing your hands).

Question 3

How can infections spread from one person to another?

Answer 3

Through direct or indirect transmission.

Infections spread through direct (touching) or indirect (touching a surface) transmission.

CNA Insight: Because germs can live on surfaces, you must clean shared equipment (like blood pressure cuffs or gait belts) between every resident use.

Question 4

What is the most common method of indirect transmission?

Answer 4

Touching contaminated surfaces.

Indirect transmission means the germ travels on an object or surface (like a doorknob or a dirty linen basket) before reaching a person.

CNA Insight: This is why you must never contaminate your uniform by leaning against a dirty surface or carrying soiled linen against your body. You must also always wash your hands after touching a call light, bed rail, or any shared surface. You are the link that stops the germ from traveling.

Question 5

What are some common portals of entry and exit for pathogens?

Answer 5

• Respiratory tract
• Digestive tract
• Genitourinary tract
• Breaks in the skin

Portals of Entry and Exit are simply the doorways a germ uses to leave one person and enter another. Common portals are the respiratory tract (mouth/nose), digestive tract (feces/vomit), and breaks in the skin (wounds).

CNA Insight: Your role is to cover these portals to stop the spread. This means wearing a mask for coughing residents, using gloves for all perineal care, and reporting any skin tears immediately to close the doorway.

Question 6

Define:

Healthcare-Associated Infections

(HAI)

Answer 6

Infections acquired in a healthcare facility.

Healthcare-Associated Infections (HAIs), also known as nosocomial infections, are infections acquired in a healthcare facility.

CNA Insight: These infections are often preventable. Your strict adherence to hand hygiene and aseptic technique (clean procedures) is the single most effective way to prevent residents from getting sicker while in your care. Your attention to infection control directly helps them get better and go home sooner.

Question 7

What is a potential consequence of a nosocomial infection?

Answer 7

Prolonged hospital stay.

Nosocomial infections can lead to longer hospitalizations and increased healthcare costs.

Question 8

What is MRSA?

Answer 8

Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus

MRSA is a type of bacteria that is resistant to common antibiotics.

CNA Insight: MRSA is often found on the skin or in the nose. You must use Contact Precautions (gloves and gown) when caring for a resident with MRSA to prevent spreading this difficult-to-treat germ.

Question 9

How can C. difficile be spread?

Answer 9

Through contact with contaminated hands or surfaces.

C. difficile is spread through contact with contaminated hands or surfaces. The main symptoms are severe, watery diarrhea and abdominal pain.

CNA Insight: C. diff spores are tough. You must always wash your hands with soap and water (hand sanitizer is not effective) and use special wipes to clean surfaces. You must also use Contact Precautions and ensure the resident is kept clean and dry to prevent the spread of this highly contagious infection.

Question 10

What is the main symptom of C. difficile infection?

Answer 10

Severe diarrhea

The main symptom is severe, watery diarrhea.

CNA Insight: This is highly contagious. You must use Contact Precautions and ensure the resident is kept clean and dry to prevent the spread of the bacteria to other residents.

Question 11

Which type of microbe causes diseases such as tuberculosis?

Answer 11

Bacteria

Bacteria are single-celled germs that can cause diseases like Tuberculosis (TB), which is a serious infection that usually affects the lungs.

CNA Insight: If a resident has active TB, you will be required to wear a special N95 mask and follow Airborne Precautions. Your role is to follow these isolation rules strictly to prevent the spread of this serious disease.

Question 12

List TWO examples of a bloodborne pathogen?

Answer 12

1. HIV
2. Hepatitis B

Bloodborne pathogens are germs carried in the blood, such as Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Hepatitis B.

CNA Insight: You must always use Standard Precautions (gloves) when there is a risk of contact with blood or body fluids to protect yourself and others from these pathogens. Never touch blood or body fluids without wearing gloves.

Question 13

Fill in the blank:

HIV weakens the ______ system.

Answer 13

immune

HIV weakens the immune system.

CNA Insight: A weakened immune system means the resident is a susceptible host and cannot fight off germs easily. Your strict adherence to infection control is vital to protect them from common illnesses.

Question 14

True or False:

Needlestick injuries pose a risk of bloodborne infection.

Answer 14

True

Bloodborne pathogens can be transmitted through needlestick injuries.

Question 15

What should be done if a healthcare worker is exposed to a bloodborne pathogen?

Answer 15

• Report the exposure immediately.
• Follow the exposure control plan.

If exposed, you must report the exposure immediately and follow the exposure control plan.

CNA Insight: Do not wait. Immediately wash the exposed area and report to your supervisor. Prompt action can significantly reduce the risk of infection.

Question 16

List THREE factors that increase infection susceptibility.

Answer 16

1. Age
2. Chronic illness
3. Medical devices

Factors that increase susceptibility are age, chronic illness, and medical devices (like urinary catheters).

CNA Insight: Residents with these factors are highly vulnerable. Your care must be extra vigilant, especially around catheter sites and wounds, to prevent germs from entering.

Question 17

What are the signs of infection in older adults?

Answer 17

• A new onset of confusion or increased confusion (if the person is already confused)
• Changes in eating or appetite
• New onset of the loss of bladder or bowel control or more frequent episodes of incontinence
• Loss of the ability to complete tasks the person is usually able to do
• Fatigue or lethargy
• Flu-like symptoms

Signs of infection in older adults are often subtle and include new confusion, loss of appetite, or new incontinence.

CNA Insight: Older adults often do not get a fever. You must report any sudden, unexplained change in behavior or function immediately, as it is often the first sign of a serious infection.

Question 18

Fill in the blank:

The best defense against infection is _______.

Answer 18

prevention

The best defense against infection is prevention.

CNA Insight: Prevention is your job! By consistently practicing hand hygiene, proper cleaning, and safe care, you are actively preventing the spread of disease.

Question 19

List THREE methods of infection control.

Answer 19

1. Hand hygiene
2. Using PPE
3. Cleaning contaminated surfaces

These three methods are your daily tools for breaking the chain of infection. Never skip a step, even if you are in a hurry.

Question 20

What is the most important step in controlling the spread of infection?

Answer 20

Hand hygiene

The most important step is hand hygiene.

CNA Insight: Hand hygiene is the single most effective way to prevent the spread of germs. You must wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before and after every resident contact, even if you wore gloves.

Question 21

Fill in the blank:

Alcohol-based hand rubs are ineffective against ______.

Answer 21

C. difficile

Handwashing with soap and water is required for removing C. difficile spores.

Question 22

How does vaccination help prevent infections?

Answer 22

It stimulates the immune system to recognize and fight pathogens.

Vaccination helps by stimulating the immune system to recognize and fight germs. Vaccines prevent serious infectious diseases like influenza and hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is required for healthcare workers.

Question 23

Which PPE should be worn when handling blood or body fluids?

Answer 23

• Gloves
• Gown
• Mask
• Protective eyewear

The Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) you wear depends on the risk, but often includes gloves, gown, mask, and protective eyewear.

CNA Insight: Always wear gloves when there is a risk of contact with blood or body fluids. Never touch your face or adjust your mask with contaminated gloves.

Question 24

True or False:

Disposable gloves can be reused if disinfected properly.

Answer 24

False

CNA Insight: Disposable gloves are for single use only. You must remove them immediately after completing a task, turn them inside out, and perform hand hygiene before touching anything else. Reusing gloves is a major way to spread germs.

Question 25

What should a person with respiratory symptoms do to **prevent infection spread**?

Answer 25

* Wear a mask * Practice cough etiquette ## Footnote Covering coughs and sneezes reduces airborne transmission.

Question 26

What is the purpose of **isolation precautions**?

Answer 26

To prevent the spread of **contagious diseases**. ## Footnote The purpose of isolation precautions is to prevent the spread of contagious diseases. **CNA Insight**: Always read the sign on the resident's door before entering. The sign tells you exactly what Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) you must wear (e.g., gown, gloves, mask) to protect yourself and the facility.

Question 27

What is the purpose of **standard precautions**?

Answer 27

To protect **healthcare workers and patients** from infections. ## Footnote The purpose of standard precautions is to protect healthcare workers and patients from infections. **CNA Insight**: Standard precautions mean you treat all blood, body fluids, non-intact skin, and mucous membranes as if they are infectious. This means always washing your hands and wearing gloves for perineal care, even if the resident looks healthy.

Question 28

# Define: **Droplet** Precautions

Answer 28

Precautions used when caring for a person who is known or thought to have an illness that is **transmitted by large droplets in the air** (respiratory droplets). ## Footnote Diseases like influenza and meningitis require these precautions. Droplet precautions are used when caring for a person who has an illness that is transmitted by large droplets in the air (like from coughing or sneezing). **CNA Insight**: You must wear a surgical mask when entering the room. These droplets usually travel only about three feet, so the mask is your main defense.

Question 29

# True or False: Droplet precautions require **a HEPA mask**.

Answer 29

False ## Footnote A surgical mask is sufficient for droplet precautions.

Question 30

What are the THREE types of **transmission-based precautions**?

Answer 30

1. Airborne 2. Droplet 3. Contact precautions ## Footnote The three types of Transmission-Based Precautions are: * **Contact Precautions**: Used for infections spread by direct contact with the resident or their environment (e.g., MRSA, C. difficile). * **Droplet Precautions**: Used for infections spread by large droplets from coughing or sneezing (e.g., Influenza, Mumps). * **Airborne Precautions**: Used for infections spread by tiny particles that can float in the air (e.g., Tuberculosis, Chickenpox). **CNA Insight**: These precautions are always used in addition to Standard Precautions. You must check the sign on the resident's door to know which type of precaution to use and what Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is required.

Question 31

# Define: **Airborne** Precautions

Answer 31

Precautions used when caring for a person who is known or thought to have an illness that is **transmitted through the air**. ## Footnote Airborne precautions are used for illnesses that are transmitted through the air on tiny particles. **CNA Insight**: You must wear a special N95 mask (not a regular surgical mask) when entering the room. This is used for serious diseases like Tuberculosis.

Question 32

How is tuberculosis **spread**? | (**TB**)

Answer 32

Through **airborne** droplets. ## Footnote Tuberculosis is spread through airborne droplets that can float in the air for hours. **CNA Insight**: If a resident has TB, they must be in a **Negative Pressure Room**. This is a special room that uses a fan to suck the air out of the room and filter it, so the germs cannot escape into the hallway. Your role is to ensure the door is always kept closed to keep the system working and the germs contained.

Question 33

What should be done with **used sharps**?

Answer 33

Dispose of them in a **puncture-proof** sharps container. ## Footnote Used sharps (needles, razors) must be disposed of in a puncture-proof sharps container. **CNA Insight**: Never recap a needle. Never push down on or stick your finger into the sharps container. Your safety and the safety of the housekeeping staff depend on proper disposal.

Question 34

What is the **first step** to take if you get **pricked by a needle** while changing linens?

Answer 34

**Wash** the area thoroughly. ## Footnote The first step is to wash the area thoroughly with soap and water. **CNA Insight**: After washing, you must immediately report the exposure to your supervisor so the facility's exposure control plan can be followed.

Question 35

How should **contaminated laundry** be handled?

Answer 35

Place in a **leak-proof** laundry bag. ## Footnote This prevents the spread of infection.

Question 36

How should **bedpans be carried** to prevent contamination?

Answer 36

Always **covered**. ## Footnote Bedpans must always be carried covered. **CNA Insight**: Always cover the bedpan with a lid or a towel. This prevents the spread of germs and maintains the resident's dignity.

Question 37

In what **sequence** should personal protective equipment **be worn**? | (**PPE**)

Answer 37

1. Gown 2. Mask 3. Eyewear 4. Gloves ## Footnote Following the CDC guidelines, the correct order for putting on PPE is to first wear a gown, then a mask, followed by eyewear, and finally gloves.

Question 38

In what **sequence** should personal protective equipment **be removed**? | (**PPE**)

Answer 38

1. Gloves 2. Gown 3. Eyewear 4. Mask ## Footnote The dirtiest items (gloves and gown) should be removed first. Eyewear and the mask should be removed last, followed by hand hygiene.

Question 39

# True or False: A single-use disposable mask can be **worn multiple times**.

Answer 39

False ## Footnote **CNA Insight**: Disposable masks are for single use only. Once you leave the resident's room, the mask is considered contaminated and must be discarded. Never let a used mask dangle around your neck.

Question 40

How should healthcare workers dispose of **contaminated gloves**?

Answer 40

Remove and discard in a **biohazard waste container**. ## Footnote Contaminated gloves should be removed and discarded in a biohazard waste container (or regular trash if not saturated with blood). **CNA Insight**: Remove the gloves using the glove-to-glove, skin-to-skin technique to avoid touching the outside of the contaminated glove with your bare hand.

Question 41

How can a healthcare worker prevent **cross-contamination when using gloves**?

Answer 41

* Change gloves between tasks. * Wash hands after gloves removal. ## Footnote This prevents spreading microbes to clean areas.

Question 42

How can a person reduce their risk of **foodborne infection**?

Answer 42

* Washing hands before handling food. * Cooking food thoroughly. ## Footnote A **foodborne infection** is an illness caused by eating food or drinking water that is contaminated with germs. **CNA Insight**: You reduce this risk by washing hands before handling food and cooking food thoroughly. Your role is to ensure the resident's food is served promptly, never serve food that has been sitting out for too long, and always check the temperature of food to ensure it is safe.

Question 43

How should **reusable medical equipment** be cleaned?

Answer 43

With **disinfectant** or **sterilization** methods. ## Footnote Proper cleaning prevents cross-contamination. Reusable medical equipment should be cleaned with disinfectant or sterilization methods. **CNA Insight**: You are responsible for disinfecting equipment like blood pressure cuffs and stethoscopes between every resident use.

Question 44

# Define: Sterilization

Answer 44

The process of **eliminating all microbes** from an object. ## Footnote **Sterilization** is the process of eliminating all microbes from an object. **CNA Insight**: Sterilization is usually done by a special department. Your role is to ensure that any sterile package you open is not wet, torn, or expired before use.

Question 45

Which **cleaning agent** is effective against most healthcare pathogens?

Answer 45

A disinfectant solution **containing bleach**. ## Footnote A cleaning agent that is effective is a chlorine-based disinfectant (like a facility-approved bleach solution). **CNA Insight**: A chlorine-based solution is required to kill tough germs like C. difficile. Always check the facility's policy for the correct cleaning solution for each room, and ensure you follow the contact time (how long the surface must stay wet) on the label.

Question 46

What should be done if a patient has a suspected **contagious skin infection**?

Answer 46

Implement **contact** precautions. ## Footnote Contact precautions are used when caring for a person who is known or thought to have an illness that can be spread by direct or indirect contact. If a contagious skin infection is suspected, notify the nurse for proper assessment.

Question 47

What should be done **before exiting** a patient’s isolation room?

Answer 47

* Remove PPE * Wash hands ## Footnote Before exiting, you must remove all Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and wash your hands. **CNA Insight**: All PPE must be removed inside the room (except the mask for airborne) to prevent carrying germs out into the hallway.

Question 48

Where should you **dispose of a gown** used for an isolated patient?

Answer 48

In the laundry hamper **designated for that purpose** inside the patient’s room. ## Footnote To prevent the spread of infection, gowns should be removed and disposed of in the appropriate hamper located within the isolation room.

Question 49

What should be done if a patient **refuses isolation precautions**?

Answer 49

**Educate** them on the importance of infection control. ## Footnote If a patient refuses, you must educate them on the importance of infection control and notify the nurse immediately. **CNA Insight**: You cannot force a resident to comply, but you must document the refusal and ensure the nurse is aware so they can address the risk.

Question 50

What is the purpose of an **exposure control plan**?

Answer 50

To outline procedures for handling **occupational exposure to pathogens**. ## Footnote OSHA mandates employers to have an exposure control plan. This plan tells you exactly what to do if you are exposed to blood or body fluids. You must know where this plan is located and follow it exactly.

Question 51

How is **norovirus** most commonly spread?

Answer 51

Through contaminated **food**, **water**, or **surfaces**. ## Footnote Norovirus causes severe vomiting and diarrhea. Norovirus is most commonly spread through contaminated food, water, or surfaces. **CNA Insight**: Your role is to be extremely vigilant with handwashing and disinfection to prevent this highly contagious virus from spreading throughout the facility.

Question 52

What action should a healthcare worker take if he **exhibits flu symptoms** but is scheduled to work?

Answer 52

**Immediately report the illness** to the immediate supervisor and describe his symptoms. ## Footnote The supervisor can make decisions about what tasks you can do and what care he can safely provide to others. Reporting illness is crucial to protect patients, especially those with compromised immune systems.