MCEM Part A Study Guide/Microbiology/Principles of Microbiology/Controlling Infection

Endogenous Infection

Exogenous Infection

Hospital Acquired Infection Hospital Factors:

  • Air and Water Supply (eg. Legionella)
  • Fomites
  • Hospital Food

Patient Factors:

  • Reduced personal hygiene
  • Lowered resistance secondary to primary disease
  • Overcrowding facilitates disease dissemination

Healthcare Factors:

  • Cannulation (48hrs)
  • Catheterisation (Introduction of bacteria, biofilm, facilitating retrograde travel)
  • Staff as Vectors (Handwashing, Short Sleeves etc.)