nosocomial infection

EmilyCCRN · Oct 2, 2004

Have you looked into the use of artificial nails as being a significant cause of infection? Our nursing program and pretty much every facility in my area now ban artificial nails (and even nail polish) because of it. Our instructor was telling us the other day about a study done in a NICU where they traced a widespread infection back to one nurse with fake nails. I hope this helps!

Truly_Blessed · Oct 2, 2004

Yes I agree with the post above. That's a good one to look into. Also, nurses not washing their hands in between patients. Or what about the alcohol based sanitizer pumps that alot of hospitals have placed beside the doors to what? Save time? Is that equivelant to handwashing? Those are good things to research.:)

Truly_Blessed · Oct 2, 2004

Also, along with the handwashing....alot don't even properly wash their hands, or recontaminate by touching the faucet handle or door on the way out. Those boxes of latex gloves by the door also...Those aren't very sanitary either...not with everyone sticking their nasty hands in it all the time.....nurses, physicians, visitors, etc.

jemb · Oct 2, 2004

Other things to research would be those back support belts that some facilities require. Most of them have to be hand washed and line dried, so how is someone who works full time and is issued only one (or, at best, two) of them supposed to keep them clean?!

RedSox33RN · Oct 2, 2004

Stethoscopes and other equipment is a biggie. We were told in Lab that we're supposed to wash stethoscope and 02 monitor with alcohol pad between clients. Of course WE students do it because we're under a microscope, but in the real world, it doesn't happen nearly as often.

fergus51 · Oct 2, 2004

I would disagree. The word should be healthcare professionals. You would be surprised at how many patients doctors, RTs, PTs, etc. see as well.

PJMommy · Oct 4, 2004

I believe the nurse/fake fingernail thing was pseudomonas infection. I personally see nurses are pretty good about washing their hands/using alcohol cleaner. The docs aren't nearly as good. One that always freaks me out are the x-ray techs with the portables -- they just go from one room to the next doing x-rays and never even change gloves.

Look up "infection control". Maybe you could narrow the search to a specific hospital-acquired infection. Maybe MRSA? Maybe VRE?

Maggie in NC · Oct 4, 2004

Check the CDC's website, they may have more details!

Good luck!

blue eyes · Oct 4, 2004

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.

jschut, BSN, RN · Oct 4, 2004

Healthcare workers..not just nurses. :)

An Angel · Nov 20, 2004

I have to thank all of u for your help

I couldn't reply before because of my insuffecient time. u were so helpful and I found a lot of good things to write and present

thank u:

an angel