Asepsis and Standard Precautions Exploring Career Pathways 17.2

Introduction to Asepsis Health care environments are constantly contaminated with pathogens carried by patients, visitors, and staff. Health care staff use medical asepsis to keep their surroundings infection and disease free. They do this through the use of aseptic techniques.

Asepsis Techniques Proper handwashing Proper handling of equipment Using sterile procedure when necessary Using proper cleaning solutions Following Standard Precautions

Solutions that Clean Bacteria Bacteriostatic Solution Bactericidal Solutions Slows or stops the growth of bacteria Kills bacteria

Signs and Symptoms of Infection Generalized Localized Headache Fatigue Fever Increased Pulse Diarrhea Redness Swelling Heat Drainage Pain at the site of infection

Following Proper Precaution Prevents.. Cross infection Reinfection Illness spreading from one patient to a health care worker or vise versa Self-inoculation Ex: E. Coli from the intestines entering the urethra

Who enforces and updates standard precautions?

The CDC The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention enforces and updates Standard Precautions for health care facilities

Standard Precautions provide protection for.. Blood Pericardial fluid Amniotic fluid Cerebrospinal fluid Pleural fluid Semen Vaginal secretions

HBV and HIV can occur through.. Direct injection Contact of infected body fluids Sexual contact Pregnancy

Types of Protective Equipment Gloves Nonpermeable gowns or aprons Mask and protective eye gear Shared equipment between patients

What is the single-most effective way to prevent the spread of infections?

HAND HYGIENE Washing before and after contact Washing after using the bathroom Washing after touching bodily fluids, even if you are wearing gloves Wash for 15 seconds Use paper towels to turn off faucet Dry hands completely

Disinfection Techniques Boiling water Mild bleach solution Ultrasonic cleaners Best used for small cleaning surfaces or hard to reach areas

Soiled Linen Precautions Wash hands and wear gloves Fold soiled linens inward upon themselves when removing from the bed Hold linens away from your uniform Place in the nearest hamper If hamper becomes contaminated, cover it with a plastic bag

Disposing of Sharps Procedure Wash hands and wear gloves Place with protective sheath or cover before leaving the area If used during procedure, separate from other items on the tray and cover them with the procedure tray cover Place in closest sharps container If not disposable, place in nearest dirty utility room Remove gloves Wash hands