The Chain of InfectionPage 2 of 6

Chain of Infection

Illustration of the Chain of Infection

Authors:
    
 Nancy Evans, BS
     Lauren Robertson, BA, MPT

Contact hours: 1
AOTA CEUs: 0.1
Expiration date: April 1, 2025
Course price: $10

Course Summary

The very nature of healthcare settings makes them vulnerable to the spread of infections because they serve patients who are ill and are therefore susceptible hosts. Patients with altered immunity such as people with cancer or HIV/AIDS are at high risk for infection. Surgical patients are at risk because any incision creates a new portal of entry for pathogens. Elderly patients may have weakened immunity simply because of their age. Healthcare workers are themselves at risk of infection because of their close daily contact with patients who may harbor pathogens. Thus, infection control (and breaking the chain of infection) is a primary component of safe, effective patient care.

For Mail Order

To register and pay via U.S. mail, please download the PDF below and follow the written instructions.

PDF icon Chain of Infection

Target Audience

Nurses, nurse practitioners, advanced practice nurses, physical therapists, physical therapy assistants, occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants*.

AOTA Approved Provider Logo 2023 ATrain Education is an AOTA Approved Provider of professional development. Approved provider #6558. This distance learning-independent is offered at 0.1 CEUs, introductory, Foundational Knowledge. The assignment of AOTA CEUs does not imply endorsement of specific course content, products, or clinical procedures by AOTA.

Criteria for Successful Completion

Study the course material, achieve a score of 80% or higher on the post test (the post test can be repeated if a learner scores less than 80%), complete the course evaluation, and pay where required. No partial credit will be awarded.

Accreditation

To find specific accreditations or approvals, click here.

Conflict of Interest/Commercial Support Disclosure

The planners and authors of this learning activity have declared no conflicts of interest, vested interest, or financial relationship that may influence the content of this activity. All information is provided fairly and without bias.

ATrain Education, Inc. received no outside financial or commercial support in the preparation, presentation or implementation of this learning activity and has no affiliation with any company whose products or services are mentioned in this activity.

Course Objectives

When you finish this course you will be able to*:

  1. Describe the 6 components of the chain of infection.
  2. Discuss 3 host factors that affect the spread of infection.
  3. Describe 5 common prevention strategies used to break the chain of infection.

*Please note: attainment of course objectives will be assessed in the course evaluation.