Chapter V: A. Infections Control, Exposure Control, And Safety

According to OSHA regulations, every medical facility is required to have an exposure control plan. This plan is designed to minimize employee exposure to potentially infectious materials and ensure their safety. It includes measures such as using personal protective equipment, providing training to employees, and implementing procedures for handling and disposing of hazardous materials. Therefore, the correct answer is true.

The term "HIV" stands for human immunodeficiency virus. This virus is responsible for causing AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome). It attacks the immune system, specifically the CD4 cells, weakening the body's ability to fight off infections and diseases. By understanding that "HIV" refers to human immunodeficiency virus, we can recognize the importance of prevention, testing, and treatment to combat this global health issue.

Biohazard labels must be colored orange-red because this color is universally recognized as a warning color for hazardous materials and biological substances. The bright and distinct color helps to quickly identify and alert individuals to the potential dangers associated with the labeled item. This color choice ensures that the label stands out and catches attention, promoting safety and proper handling of biohazardous materials.

The correct answer is Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). OSHA is a federal agency that is responsible for ensuring safe and healthy working conditions for employees. One of the safety measures that OSHA requires is the use of Sharps Containers, which are specially designed containers used for the safe disposal of sharp medical instruments such as needles and syringes. This requirement helps to prevent injuries and the spread of infections in healthcare settings.

When taking vital signs, a medical assistant is not required to wear gloves, gowns, and eye wear. While it is important for medical professionals to take necessary precautions to prevent the spread of infection, wearing gloves, gowns, and eye wear is not a standard requirement for taking vital signs. However, it is still important for medical assistants to follow proper hand hygiene and infection control protocols.

Contamination refers to the process by which an object or area becomes unclean. It involves the introduction of harmful substances, microorganisms, or pollutants, which can compromise the cleanliness, safety, or purity of the object or area. This can occur through various means such as direct contact, airborne transmission, or through contaminated surfaces or substances. Contamination can pose health risks and may require appropriate measures such as cleaning, disinfection, or sterilization to ensure the removal or destruction of contaminants.

A paper towel can be used to turn off the faucet by wrapping it around the handle and twisting it to close the tap. This method is often used in public restrooms to avoid direct contact with the faucet handle, which may be dirty or contaminated. Using a paper towel provides a hygienic way to turn off the faucet and prevent the spread of germs.

Blood is the single most important source of HIV and HBV in the workplace because these viruses are primarily transmitted through contact with infected blood. HIV can be transmitted through direct contact with infected blood, such as through needlestick injuries or contact with open wounds. HBV can also be transmitted through contact with infected blood, as well as through other body fluids like semen and vaginal fluids. However, blood is considered the most significant source of these viruses due to its high concentration of the pathogens.

Contagious diseases are those that can be transmitted from one person to another. This can occur through direct contact, such as touching or kissing, or through indirect contact, such as airborne droplets or contaminated surfaces. Catching refers to the act of acquiring a contagious disease, while germicides and decontaminate are related to the prevention or elimination of germs and contaminants, but do not specifically refer to diseases that can be transmitted between individuals.

The correct answer is "sterilize." Sterilization refers to the process of completely eliminating or destroying all forms of microbial life, including highly resistant bacterial endospores. This physical chemical procedure ensures that no microorganisms, including spores, are left alive, making the object or area completely free from any viable microorganisms. "Eradicate" means to completely eliminate or destroy, but it does not specifically refer to microbial life. "Detoxify" means to remove toxins, which is not the same as eliminating microorganisms. "Acid wash" refers to a specific cleaning method using acid, but it may not necessarily destroy all microbial life.

The exposure control plan must be accessible to the Assistant Secretary and the Director of OSHA upon request for examination and copying. This means that these individuals have the right to review and obtain copies of the plan whenever they need to. It is important to have this plan readily available to ensure compliance with safety regulations and to facilitate any necessary inspections or audits.

Blood from all individuals should be considered infective or infectious because it may contain pathogens such as viruses, bacteria, or other microorganisms that can cause diseases. Therefore, proper precautions should be taken to handle and dispose of blood safely to prevent the spread of infections.

The autoclave sterilizes or completely destroys microorganisms by combining heat with steam under pressure. The high temperature and pressure created inside the autoclave effectively kill any microorganisms present, ensuring that the equipment or materials being sterilized are free from any harmful bacteria or viruses. This method is commonly used in medical and laboratory settings to maintain a sterile environment and prevent the spread of infections.

The patient with an infection may experience a variety of symptoms, including loss of appetite and fatigue, fever, nausea, rash and vomiting, as well as pain, redness, or swelling. These symptoms can vary depending on the type and severity of the infection. Therefore, all of the given answers are correct as they encompass different possible symptoms that a patient with an infection may have.

The first line of defense in preventing disease is the medical hand wash. This is because proper hand hygiene, including washing hands with soap and water or using hand sanitizer, is one of the most effective ways to remove and kill germs that can cause illnesses. Regular hand washing helps to reduce the spread of pathogens and maintain personal hygiene, making it an essential practice in preventing the transmission of diseases.

An infection refers to a disease state caused by the invasion and growth of microorganisms in the body. It occurs when harmful bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites enter the body and multiply, leading to various symptoms and health issues. Infections can affect different parts of the body and can range from mild to severe, depending on the type of microorganism involved and the individual's immune response. Treatment for infections often involves the use of antibiotics, antiviral medications, or antifungal drugs, depending on the specific cause.

A health care worker who unconsciously transports harmful bacteria but is not ill is called a carrier. This term refers to individuals who can transmit infectious agents to others without exhibiting any symptoms themselves. They may unknowingly harbor and spread bacteria, viruses, or other pathogens, potentially causing infections in susceptible individuals.

The term "Contaminated Sharps" refers to any objects that are contaminated and can pierce the skin, such as needles, scalpels, broken glass, broken capillary tubes, and exposed ends of dental wires. These objects pose a risk of transmitting infections or diseases if they come into contact with a person's skin. Therefore, it is important to handle and dispose of contaminated sharps properly to prevent any potential harm or contamination.

Broken glassware that may be contaminated should not be picked up directly with hands to avoid the risk of injury or contamination. Instead, it should be picked up using mechanical means, such as a brush and dustpan, which can safely collect the broken glass pieces without causing harm to the person handling it.

In cases of blood contamination, it is important to dispose of shoe coverings and gloves in biohazard plastic bags that are orange-red in color. This color is specifically chosen to indicate that the contents of the bag are potentially hazardous and should be handled with caution. Using orange-red bags helps to ensure that the waste is properly segregated and disposed of in a way that minimizes the risk of contamination and protects the safety of those handling it.

When using a fire extinguisher, it is important to direct the hose towards the base of the fire. This is because the base of the fire is where the fuel source is located. By targeting the base, the extinguishing agent can effectively smother the fire and cut off its oxygen supply, leading to its suppression. Directing the hose to the middle, top, or around the fire may not effectively extinguish the flames as it does not directly address the source of the fire.

After using disposable syringes, needles, scalpel blades, and other sharp items, it is important to place them in puncture-resistant containers for disposal. This is necessary to prevent accidental needlestick injuries and to ensure the safe disposal of these potentially hazardous items. Puncture-resistant containers are designed to withstand punctures, cuts, and leaks, reducing the risk of injury to healthcare workers, waste handlers, and the general public. By using puncture-resistant containers, the risk of contamination and infection is minimized, promoting a safer and healthier environment.

In laboratory studies, groups or clusters of bacteria are referred to as cultures. Cultures are created by growing bacteria in a controlled environment, such as a petri dish or a test tube, to study their characteristics, behavior, and growth patterns. This allows scientists to observe and experiment with bacteria under controlled conditions, aiding in research and understanding of bacterial properties and functions.

Workers who are exposed to blood or other body fluids that require universal precautions should be vaccinated with the hepatitis B vaccine. This vaccine is specifically designed to protect against the hepatitis B virus, which can be transmitted through contact with infected blood or bodily fluids. By vaccinating these workers, they can reduce their risk of contracting and spreading the hepatitis B virus in the workplace.

Contaminated laundry should be bagged or containerized at the location where it was soiled. This is necessary to prevent the spread of any potential contaminants or pathogens present in the laundry. By bagging or containerizing the laundry at the location, it can be safely transported for further processing, such as disinfection or discarding, without risking the contamination of other areas or individuals.

Microorganisms grow best in a dark and warm environment because darkness helps to prevent the growth of competing organisms, while warmth provides the optimal temperature for their metabolic activities. Light can inhibit the growth of some microorganisms, and cool temperatures may slow down their metabolism. However, it is important to note that different microorganisms have specific environmental requirements, and this answer may not apply universally to all types of microorganisms.

Viruses are considered obligate intracellular parasites, meaning they can only replicate and reproduce inside a host cell. They lack the necessary cellular machinery to carry out essential metabolic processes on their own. Therefore, they require living cells to provide the necessary resources and machinery for their replication. This is why viruses can only reproduce in living cells.

Washing your hands for approximately 1 to 2 minutes is recommended to effectively remove dirt, germs, and bacteria from your hands. This duration allows enough time to thoroughly clean all areas of your hands, including between fingers, under nails, and wrists. It is important to wash your hands for an adequate amount of time to ensure proper hygiene and reduce the risk of spreading infections.

When washing your hands, it is important to stand so that your clothes do not touch the sink. This is because the sink may contain germs or contaminants that can transfer onto your clothing. By standing in a position where your clothes are not touching the sink, you can prevent the spread of these germs and maintain proper hygiene.

Aerobic bacteria require oxygen to carry out their metabolic processes, such as respiration, which provides them with energy. Oxygen serves as the final electron acceptor in their electron transport chain, allowing them to generate ATP efficiently. In the absence of oxygen, these bacteria would switch to anaerobic metabolism, which is less efficient and can produce toxic byproducts. Therefore, oxygen is essential for the optimal growth and survival of aerobic bacteria.

The correct answer is "remote." This means that the potential for salivary transmission of HIV is unlikely or very low. Studies have shown that the transmission of HIV through saliva is extremely rare, and the virus is not easily transmitted through casual contact or sharing of saliva. The risk of HIV transmission is much higher through other means such as blood transfusion or sexual contact.

Protective mask and eye wear, or face shields, should be worn by laboratory technicians or housekeeping personnel when cleaning up blood or body fluid to prevent any potential exposure to harmful pathogens or contaminants present in the fluid. This protective gear acts as a barrier between the technicians and the potentially infectious material, reducing the risk of transmission and ensuring their safety.

The correct answer is "both a and c" because practices to achieve asepsis can be referred to as medical asepsis or clean technique. Medical asepsis involves measures taken to reduce the risk of infection, such as hand hygiene, disinfection, and sterilization. Clean technique refers to practices that aim to minimize the introduction of microorganisms, such as using clean gloves, maintaining a clean environment, and following proper procedures for handling medical equipment. Therefore, both terms are used to describe practices that promote asepsis.

The definition provided in the Federal Register states that "Contact with blood, or other body fluids to which universal precautions apply through percutaneous inoculation, or contact with an open wound, non-intact skin, or mucous membrane during the performance of normal duties" applies to human exposure. This means that the definition is referring to situations where individuals come into contact with blood or other body fluids in a way that could potentially expose them to infectious diseases or pathogens.

The correct answer is 0.50%. This means that the risk of infection with HIV following one needle-stick exposure to blood from a patient known to be infected with HIV is approximately 0.50%. This indicates that there is a relatively low risk of contracting HIV from a single needle-stick exposure, but it is still important to take appropriate precautions and seek medical attention if such an exposure occurs.

Sterilization refers to the process of eliminating or killing all microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and spores, in a specific area. This method ensures the complete destruction of any potential pathogens, making the area completely free from harmful microorganisms. Disinfection, on the other hand, refers to the process of reducing the number of microorganisms to a safe level, but it may not eliminate all of them. Washing and dusting do not necessarily involve killing microorganisms, making sterilization the correct answer in this context.

Occupational exposure refers to the reasonable anticipated contact with blood, bodily fluids, or other potentially infectious materials that an employee may come into contact with while performing their duties. This can include contact through the skin, eyes, mucous membranes, or through a puncture or injury to the skin (parenteral). The term "occupational exposure" specifically relates to the potential risks and hazards that employees may face in their workplace, highlighting the importance of taking necessary precautions to protect their health and safety.

Vaccinations against HBV infection provide 90% protection against hepatitis B for seven or more years following vaccination. This means that after receiving the vaccine, individuals are likely to be protected from hepatitis B for at least seven years. It is possible that the protection may last longer than seven years, but the minimum duration of protection is seven years.

The term "Universal Precautions" refers to a comprehensive approach to infection control. It involves taking certain precautions, such as wearing gloves and using protective barriers, to prevent the spread of infections in healthcare settings. This approach is designed to protect both healthcare workers and patients from exposure to potentially infectious materials. It is not specifically related to any particular organization or abbreviation.

The correct answer is "an EPA" because the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) is responsible for regulating and ensuring the safety of chemicals and disinfectants used in cleaning up hazardous materials, including blood-contaminated fluids. Using an EPA-approved germicide or a 1:10 solution of household bleach ensures that the cleanup is done effectively and safely, minimizing the risk of spreading infections or diseases.

General infection control procedures are designed to prevent the transmission of a wide range of microbiological agents, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. These procedures aim to create a safe environment in healthcare settings by implementing measures like hand hygiene, disinfection, sterilization, and personal protective equipment. By targeting microbiological agents, these procedures help to minimize the risk of infections and protect both healthcare workers and patients from potential harm.

Serologic testing should be made available by the employer to all workers who may be concerned they have been infected with HIV through an occupational exposure. Serologic testing involves testing blood samples for the presence of antibodies to HIV, which can indicate whether a person has been infected with the virus. This type of testing is important in identifying individuals who may have been exposed to HIV in the workplace and ensuring they receive appropriate medical care and support.

A source individual refers to any individual, whether alive or deceased, whose blood or other potentially infectious materials could pose a risk of occupational exposure to the employee. This term is used to identify individuals who may transmit infectious diseases or pathogens through direct contact or exposure to their bodily fluids or materials.

An exposure incident refers to a specific contact with potentially infectious materials that occurs while performing work duties. This contact can happen through various routes such as the eyes, mouth, mucous membranes, non-intact skin, or parenteral contact with blood. It is considered an occupational hazard as it poses a risk of infection or harm to the employee.