Infection is not random but takes a predictable course called a chain of infection. The chain of infection can be comprised of six interrelated links, which include an infectious agent, a reservoir, a portal of exit, a mode of transmission, a portal of entry, and a susceptible host. Preventing any of these six links can […]
Infection control breaches can result in the transmission of infectious agents, particularly bloodborne pathogens. These breaches are situations when established procedures are not followed, thus potentially placing patients and healthcare workers at risk. A few common infection control breaches found in healthcare facilities, including dental healthcare facilities, are: unsafe injection practices failure to monitor sterilization […]
Fall is here and with it brings football, cooler temperatures, and changing leaves. Unfortunately, it also brings increased respiratory illnesses. Some common respiratory illnesses are influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), adenovirus, rhinovirus and COVID-19. These illnesses are caused by a viral infection. Respiratory viruses can affect both the upper and lower respiratory tract. An upper […]
Meningitis is an inflammation of the membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord. There are several different types of meningitis: viral, bacterial, fungal, parasitic, drug-induced, and chronic. It is caused by different pathogens. This article will focus on the two most common causes of meningitis, viral and bacterial. The symptoms of meningitis are: Sudden […]
Do you feel prepared to protect your patients, staff, and facility from one of the most contagious diseases? With measles seeing a resurgence across healthcare settings, Total Medical Compliance is pleased to introduce a comprehensive training program specifically designed for healthcare workers: Rising Measles Cases: What You Need to Know. This course equips your team […]
Pertussis, better known as whooping cough, is on the rise in the U.S. Pertussis is the medical name used for the infection while whooping cough is the more common name that refers to the characteristic coughing sound that is made when someone has the infection. More than 10,000 cases are typically reported in the U.S. […]
Candida auris (C. auris) is a fungal infection, a type of yeast, and is often resistant to antifungal treatments. It is highly transmissible and can cause life-threatening illnesses. People who normally contract C. auris have a weakened immune system and normally are patients in the hospital or long-term care facilities. Immunocompromised patients or those with […]
Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) are infections that are acquired when a patient receives healthcare in a facility such as a hospital, outpatient surgery center, or clinic. These infections can occur during procedures or soon after receiving health care from sources such as a contaminated surface, direct contact with a healthcare worker, or a medical device. Preventing […]
Mistakes can be costly – not only to your practice but also to patients. Each step in sterilization and disinfection is important and must be followed to ensure a safe practice and patient environment. This article will focus on common mistakes found and how to prevent them. One of the most common mistakes found is […]
Having proper sterilization processes in place is crucial in preventing the transmission of infection. Monitoring the sterilization process ensures that it is effective. The methods used to monitor sterilization are physical (mechanical) monitoring, chemical indicators, and biologic monitoring. Mechanical and chemical indicators don’t guarantee sterilization; however, they are the first indicator that something may be […]
