The nurse manager is evaluating current infection control data for the intensive care unit. The nurse

compares past patient data with current data to look for trends. The nurse manager examines the

infection chain for possible solutions. In which order will the nurse arrange the items for the infection

chain beginning with the first step?

1. A mode of transmission

2. An infectious agent or pathogen

3. A susceptible host

4. A reservoir or source for pathogen growth

5. A portal of entry to a host

6. A portal of exit from the reservoir

a. 3, 2, 4, 1, 5, 6

b. 1, 3, 5, 4, 6, 2

c. 4, 2, 1, 6, 3, 5

d. 2, 4, 6, 1, 5, 3

ANS: D

For spread of infection, the chain has to be uninterrupted with an infectious agent, a reservoir and

portal of exit, a mode of transmission, a portal of entry, and a susceptible host. The nurse manager is

evaluating the chain of infection to determine actions that could be implemented to influence the

spread of infection in the

intensive care unit. Understanding the spread of infection and directing actions toward those steps

have the potential to decrease infection in the setting.

MULTIPLE RESPONSE

1. The nurse is caring for a patient in protective environment. Which actions will the nurse take?

(Select all that apply.)

a. Wear an N95 respirator when entering the patient’s room.

b. Maintain airflow rate greater than 12 air exchanges/hr.

c. Place in special room with negative-pressure airflow.

d. Open drapes during the daytime.

e. Listen to the patient’s interests.

f. Place dried flowers in a plastic vase.

ANS: B, D, E

This form of isolation requires a specialized room with positive airflow. The airflow rate is set at

greater than 12 air exchanges/hr, and all air is filtered through a HEPA filter. Isolation disrupts normal

social relationships with visitors and caregivers. Take the opportunity to listen to a patient’s concerns or

interests. Open drapes or shades and remove excess supplies and equipment. Patients are not allowed to

have dried or fresh flowers or potted plants in these rooms. All health care personnel wear an N95

respirator every time they enter the room for patients, and a private room with negative airflow is

required for patients on airborne precautions.

2. The nurse is assessing a new patient admitted to home health. Which questions will be most

appropriate for the nurse to ask to determine the risk of infection? (Select all that apply.)

a. “Can you explain the risk for infection in your home?”

b. “Have you traveled outside of the United States?”

c. “Will you demonstrate how to wash your hands?”

d. “What are the signs and symptoms of infection?”