nosocomial infections

Question

Lou had abdominal surgery. During his stay at the hospital a catheter was inserted into his bladder. After returning home Lou was diagnosed with a nosocomial infection. What are the principle routes of transmission of nosocomial infections? What can be done to prevent nosocomial infections? What are some things that increase the rates of nosocomial infection? What are some reasons why rates of nosocomial infections are markedly higher in developing countries?

Answer 1

To answer this question, you need to understand the definition of nosocomial infection. You should be able to find the answer in your class notes, textbook or online. Routes of transmission refers to how disease is spread. Disease is spread by the transmission of microorganisms, which can be by direct contact, indirect contact, or through the air, water or food. To understand how nosocomial infections are spread, you need to know the definition of nosocomial infections, and then apply it to this situation. Knowing the definition of nosocomial infections and how disease is transmitted will also enable you to answer the next question about how these infections can be prevented. Likewise, this will allow you to understand why they occur, and what situations put patients at increased risk for acquiring these infections. The final question asks why there are more nosocomial infections in developing countries. To answer this question, you need to know what a 'developing country" is, and think about the socioeconomic factors that would contribute to this increased risk.