Question

 

Q1. Explain the definition of Chain infection and list down the 6 links.

Q2. In your point of view, how can we stop the communicable diseases?

Answer 1

1. Chain infection. Infections are normally caused by germs, that can be bacteria, fungi and viruses. When a client gets infected repeatedly, one after another with different kinds of germs, can be called as chain infection. This also resembles as a chain with a series of infections or events.

The six links of chain infection are:

• The infection agent- these are the causative organisms such as bacteria, fungi, virus and parasites.
• Reservoir- these are the places where the organisms are present. It can be people, animal, soil, insects, dirty surfaces and equipments.
• Portal of exit- these are the ways in which organism gets out to the environment such as open skin, wounds, splatter of body fluids, etc.
• Mode of transmission- these are the ways that can be spread to another person or individual. The ways are direct or indirect contact, ingestion and inhalation.
• Portal of entry- these are the ways in which the new person gets infected and they are open incision, broken skin,respiratory tract, catheters and tubes.
• Susceptible host- this can be any other person, especially the individuals in health care system.

Thses 6 links are the chain of infection. Moreover, when one the chain is broken then the further processes are interrupted, which means we can prevent communicable infections.

2. The ways to prevent communicable diseases.

• Cleaning, disinfecting and sterilization all surfaces and equipments
• Routine handwashing with soap and water at least 20seconds each.
• Use of personal protective devices like gloves, mask, cap, apron
• Proper disposal of waste
• Isolating self or infected person
• Use of proper aseptic and sterile techniques for health care settings
• Trating the diseases
• Educating the public and patient