Oct 03, 2004, 10:52 PM
Updated
Oct 03, 2004 at 10:58 PM by blue eyes
I have to disagree too.
What about other patients/health care providers, visitors, medical equipment, patients own normal flora, normal flora of other patients/staff and visitors?
1)There are many exogenous sources of potential pathogens in hospitals.
Patients with infection can serve as sources of infection for other patients. In a surgical ward a patient with an infected would can be a potential source of pathogens for another patient who has just had surgery. Staff could be colonised with hospital pathogens. People who have close contact with a patient are potential sources, especially if skin lesions are on their hands. Infected patients and staff are not the only human sources as all people carry organism that can result in infection in patients susceptible.
2)Bacteria can multiple readily in warm moist environments, items such as mops, sinks, respiratory equipments, sponges, suction apparatus and humidifiers all have been implicated as potential sources of nosocomial infections. IV fluids, particularly TPN may also serve as a potential source if handled incorrectly.
3)Microorganism can be carried on hands or clothing of hospital workers, nurses doctors, lab technicians, physiotherapists, attendants, cleaners as well as visitors. Hibiclens (chlorhexidine) was shown to be an effective method of disinfectant, removed transient bacteria as well as normal flora!
4)Contaminated equipment or utensils e.g. endoscopes and ventilators can also be difficult to clean, they can serve as vehicles which transport organisms from one patient to another. LRTI may occur due to tracheostomy and intubation which increases risk of infection as it gives microorganims direct access to lower airways
5)Microorganisms can spread due to incorrect disposal of contaminated material.
-Lee G., & Bishop. P, (2002) Microbiology and Infection Control For Health Professionals, Australia: Pearson Education.
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nosocomial infection
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