Start by reading and following these instructions:
Quickly skim the questions or assignment below and the assignment rubric to help you focus.
Read the required chapter(s) of the textbook and any additional recommended resources. Some answers may require you to do additional research on the Internet or in other reference sources. Choose your sources carefully.
Consider the course discussions so far and any insights gained from it.
Create your Assignment submission and be sure to cite your sources if needed, use APA style as required, and check your spelling.
Assignment:
This week you have learned about the key factors in preventing the spread of infection, the differences in bacterial and viral infections, the importance on the correct use of antibiotics, and the role of the healthcare professional in these scenarios.
For the assignment this week you will write a 1500-1750 word essay that addresses the following prompts:
Reflect on the impact the healthcare professional has on preventing healthcare associated infections (HAIs). Discuss the standard precaution guidelines that should be followed for infection control and prevention.
Describe three ways an infection might spread within a community setting. How could these infections be slowed or stopped?
Explain how the environment impacts the growth and spread of microbes. How can environments be controlled or altered to decrease the growth of microbes? Include at least three elements of the environment that can be controlled. Why is this important in preventing HAIs?
If a patient presents with cold/flu-like symptoms, what precautions should you take to prevent the spread? For this patient, the lab work determines a viral infection. The patient is adamant they are in need of antibiotic treatment. Explain how you would respond to this patient’s request.
Assignment Expectations
Length: 1500 – 1750 words; answers must thoroughly address the questions in a clear, concise manner.
Structure: Include a title page and reference page in APA style. These do not count towards the minimum word count for this assignment.
References: Use the appropriate APA style in-text citations and references for all resources utilized to answer the questions. Include at least three (3) scholarly sources to support your claims.
Format: Save your assignment as a Microsoft Word document (.doc or .docx).
File name: Name your saved file according to your first initial, last name, and the assignment number (for example, “RHall
