NA: Infection Prevention
Presented by Erin Vigne
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Nursing assistants play a key role in preventing the spread of infection in long-term care facilities. According to the Centers for Disease Control, infections are a major cause of hospitalization and death, with an estimated 380,000 residents dying of infections in long-term care facilities every year. Many of these infections can be prevented through simple steps, such as proper handwashing, use of personal protection equipment, and the appropriate handling of soiled linens. This course will describe how infection spreads in long-term care facilities, identify critical ways that nursing assistants can prevent the spread of infection, and demonstrate the techniques described.
Meet your instructor
Erin Vigne
Erin Vigne, RN, MA, is a registered nurse, gerontologist, and certified health coach who has worked as an intervention nurse and research coordinator for the University of Maryland School of Nursing since 2011. As an intervention nurse working on a variety NIH-funded studies, she has worked in nursing homes and assisted…
Chapters & learning objectives
1. Introduction to Infection Control
This chapter will introduce a case scenario that will be used as a learning tool during the course, explain the importance of infection prevention, and introduce the learning objectives and agenda for the remainder of the course.
2. Small but Mighty
This chapter will explain what causes infection and describe why residents in long-term care facilities are more likely to get infections. It will also review the most common infections in older adults and describe signs of infection that CNAs should report to a nurse or physician. The chapter will conclude with a case scenario, and students will be asked to identify the person’s risk factors for infection.
3. Stop Germs in Their Tracks
Seemingly small but critical choices that nursing assistants make many times over the course of a shift can have a huge impact on preventing the spread of infection. This chapter will review and demonstrate proper handwashing technique, describe when an alcohol-based rub is adequate versus using soap and water, teach respiratory etiquette (sneeze/cough into your sleeve), discuss when to switch gloves and wear personal protective equipment, and demonstrate how to handle soiled linens properly.
4. We’re Not Done Yet! There Are a Few More Things You Can Do!
This chapter will discuss the important role that vaccinations play in infection prevention. It will also describe how communication between employees, residents, and visitors can help reduce the spread of infection. The chapter will conclude with a review of the case scenario presented at the beginning of the course, and some tips on moving forward.
