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Infection Transmission-Part II

LTC Nursing Assistant Trainer, September 1, 2005

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CNAs should always be aware of the potential for infection transmission. Last week, we examined types of diseases and how they are transmitted. CNAs can also reduce the risk of transmission by observing and, if necessary, adjusting their own work habits. Frequent handwashing and changing gloves are the most important control measures a CNA can take to prevent the spread of infection.

When is it vital for a CNA to wash his or her hands?

• When arriving at or leaving work
• Before and after touching a resident
• Before and after meals
• Before and after using the restroom
• After sneezing or blowing the nose
• After touching an item used by or for a resident
• After removing gloves
• After removing personal protective equipment
• After working on a surface that may be contaminated with body fluids or other substances

When is it vital for a CNA to change his or her gloves?

• Between contact with each resident
• When leaving a resident's room to obtain equipment

It may also be necessary to change gloves and wash hands when providing care to more than one part of a resident's body, in order to prevent the spread of infection from one part of the body to another.

In general, CNAs can also reduce the risk of infection to themselves by not eating, drinking, touching contact lenses, or applying lipstick or lip balm when in an area where blood or body fluids might be present.

Next week, in the last of our three-part look at infection transmission, we will examine isolation precautions.

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