Safety and Infection Control

Infection Control for CNAs: The Ultimate Study Guide

Master the essential principles of infection control, standard precautions, and PPE usage for the CNA exam.

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Infection Control: The First Line of Defense

Infection control is one of the most critical responsibilities of a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). It involves preventing the spread of bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens that can cause disease in vulnerable residents.

Key Concepts

  • Medical Asepsis: Also known as "clean technique," this involves reducing the number of pathogens (e.g., handwashing).
  • Standard Precautions: Treating all blood, body fluids, non-intact skin, and mucous membranes as if they are infected.
  • PPE (Personal Protective Equipment): Gloves, gowns, masks, and eye protection used to create a barrier against infection.

The Chain of Infection

Understanding how infection spreads is key to stopping it. The chain has six links:

  1. Causative Agent: The pathogen (bacteria, virus).
  2. Reservoir: Where the pathogen lives (humans, surfaces).
  3. Portal of Exit: How it leaves the body (sneezing, blood).
  4. Mode of Transmission: How it travels (hands, air, droplets).
  5. Portal of Entry: How it enters the new host (broken skin, mouth).
  6. Susceptible Host: The person at risk (elderly, weak immune system).

Critical Skills to Master

  • Hand Hygiene: The single most effective way to prevent infection. Wash for at least 20 seconds with friction.
  • Donning and Doffing PPE: Putting on (donning) and taking off (doffing) gear in the correct order to avoid self-contamination.
  • Handling Linens: Never shake linens (spreads germs) and hold dirty linen away from your uniform.

Related Terminology

Practice Quizzes

Ready to test your knowledge? Try these focused quizzes:

Infection Control for CNAs: The Ultimate Study Guide | NurseMastery | NurseMastery