What is a cross infection?

  There’s a good reason why doctors are obsessed with washing their hands and hospitals are such sterile environments: A clean and thoroughly sanitized area is vital for preventing patient complications, namely infections. A cross infection occurs when harmful microorganisms like bacteria and viruses transfer to a patient by way of another person or medical tools and equipment. It can also spread within the body. Such an infection can drastically delay wound healing and lead to more serious complications. Here’s a quick overview of what you should know about cross infections: The types and causes Healthline noted that various types of cross infections can develop, such as a urinary tract infection caused by a catheter or a surgical wound infection that develops post-operation. Cross infections develop because bacteria, fungi, parasites or viruses are present in the affected area, but how they reach that location differs. Often, the microorganisms can spread through unsterilized medical equipment, coughing and sneezing, human contact, dirty bedding or touching contaminated items. Insecure wound dressings can also leave the affected area vulnerable to cross infection. The symptoms Signs of this kind of infected wound include fever, redness, swelling and pus. If you experience these symptoms, your doctor will likely perform a physical exam, blood or culture tests and X-rays to diagnose the infection. “Preventing cross-contamination involves ensuring prop...
Source: Advanced Tissue - Category: Dermatology Authors: Tags: Wound Infection Source Type: news