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Fundamentals of Nursing

Introduction

Fundamentals of NursingIntroduction
A photograph of a healthcare worker washing hands with soap in a sink is shown.
Figure 10.1 Handwashing is the single most important technique to stop the spread of infection. (credit: “20120106-OC-AMW-0074” by Flickr/USDA, Public Domain)

Chapter Outline

10.1 Infection Cycle
10.2 Asepsis and PPE
10.3 Sterile Technique
10.4 Infection Control and Patient Safety

Nurses are responsible for consistently providing patient care that adheres to current evidence-based practices and meets professional standards and guidelines. There are effective scientific and practical control methods to prevent the development of infection and the transmission of diseases in a healthcare setting. Nurses provide healing care to patients of all ages and stages of life. While they are able to foster the emotional aspects of healing, clinical safety must be at the forefront of decisions to make sure both patients and healthcare providers remain safe. While it is widely understood that practices such as handwashing and covering a sneeze are important in everyday life, nurses hold a deeper responsibility to prevent and control infection against the most dangerous infectious agents.

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