Our bodies are amazing structures that defend us against infections under normal circumstances. As you read this chapter you will learn about disease-causing microorganisms, how the body defends itself against infections, and ways that infections might occur. You also learn how, as a medical assistant, you can be instrumental in helping to break the cycle of infection by practicing asepsis in the office setting as well as by educating patients in the prevention of disease transmission. | 32 Principles of Asepsis 32- Learning Outcomes Explain the historical background of infectious disease prevention. Identify the types of microorganisms that cause disease. List some infectious diseases, and identify their signs and symptoms. Discuss the importance of preventing antibiotic resistance in a health-care setting. Describe ways you can help prevent antibiotic resistance in health-care settings. 32- Learning Outcomes (cont.) Explain the disease process. Explain how the body’s defenses protect against infection. Describe the cycle of infection. Identify and describe the various methods of disease transmission. Explain how you can help break the cycle of infection. 32- Introduction Antibiotic-resistant organisms Importance of patient education on the proper use of antibiotics You will learn about: Disease-causing microorganisms How the body fights disease Ways infections occur Our bodies are amazing . | 32 Principles of Asepsis 32- Learning Outcomes Explain the historical background of infectious disease prevention. Identify the types of microorganisms that cause disease. List some infectious diseases, and identify their signs and symptoms. Discuss the importance of preventing antibiotic resistance in a health-care setting. Describe ways you can help prevent antibiotic resistance in health-care settings. 32- Learning Outcomes (cont.) Explain the disease process. Explain how the body’s defenses protect against infection. Describe the cycle of infection. Identify and describe the various methods of disease transmission. Explain how you can help break the cycle of infection. 32- Introduction Antibiotic-resistant organisms Importance of patient education on the proper use of antibiotics You will learn about: Disease-causing microorganisms How the body fights disease Ways infections occur Our bodies are amazing structures that defend us against infections under normal circumstances 32- History of Infectious Disease Prevention Throughout history people have attempted to discover Causes of infection How to prevent infections How to treat infections 32- History of Infectious Disease Prevention (cont.) Scientist Contribution Edward Jenner (1749–1823) Developed first effective vaccine Used cowpox to vaccinate against smallpox Ignaz Semmelweis (1818–1865) and Oliver Wendell Holmes (1809–1894) Promoted handwashing as a means of reducing the spread of puerperal fever to women in childbirth 32- History of Infectious Disease Prevention (cont.) Scientist Contribution Louis Pasteur (1822–1895) Helped develop the germ theory of infectious disease, stating that disease is caused by microorganisms Joseph Lister (1827–1912) Helped develop germ theory Introduced aseptic techniques through the use of antiseptics on wounds, surgical sites, and surgical instruments 32- History
