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Transmission of infection is considered to be a cycle, commonly referred to as ‘The chain of infection’. In order to prevent the transmission of infection it is necessary to break the chain.
Infectious agent (Pathogen) This is any micro-organism that causes infection such as MRSA, Clostridium difficile or influenza.
Reservoirs This could be a colonised or infected person, or contaminated equipment or environment.
Portal of exit This is how the micro-organisms leave the reservoir. For example body fluids and respiratory secretions.
Mode of transmission Contaminated hands are the most common way in which microorganisms are spread but there are other modes such as coughing, sneezing and diarrhoea.
Portal of entry These infectious agents need a way to enter the body such as ingestion, inhalation and inoculation. Any indwelling device such as a urinary catheter or cannula also allows pathogens to enter the body.
Susceptible host Reduced immunity through chemotherapy or antibiotics can make some patients more vulnerable to infection. The elderly and the very young are also particularly susceptible.
How do you break the chain?
How do you break the chain?
Standard Precautions apply to all patients and clients at all times. You are personally responsible for implementing standard precautions in your personal practice to reduce the risk of infection to yourself, your colleagues and your patients and clients.
Standard Precautions
Standard Precautions
Standard Precautions are the basic principles of Infection Prevention and Control that should underpin safe practice, in order to protect both staff and patients/clients from infection.
They include:
- Hand Hygiene
- The wearing of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- Safe use and disposal of sharps
- Decontamination of equipment and maintaining a clean environment
- Waste management
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