Today our topic of discussion is Types of Isolation.
Types of Isolation
TYPES OF ISOLATION
Strict isolation: It prevents spread by contact in case of rabies, tetanus, anthrax, scabies, leprosy and venereal diseases, nurses must wash hands frequently and thoroughly use disposable supplies and discard them properly. Send reusable supplies for disinfection and sterilization. Wear gown, mask and gloves.
Respiratory isolation: It is indicated in situations where the pathogens are spread on droplets from the respiratory tract. In this type of infection nurses should wear mask and gown while caring for the patient.
Used articles should be disinfected avoid the possibility of contamination. Handkerchiefs should be cleaned and disinfected before reuse. Maintain reasonable distance to prevent droplet infection, the diseases are whooping cough, influenza, diphtheria, measles, etc.
Enteric isolation: It is indicated when the pathogens are transmitted in feces, for this type isolation, it is not necessary to wear a mask, but it is recommended that gloves and gowns be worn when handling soiled articles.
Thorough hand washing should be emphasized both by the patients and nurses. The excreta may be disinfected by adding lime before its disposal. The soiled articles such as linen should be disinfected before sending to laundry.
Wound and skin isolation: This type of isolation is for pathogens which are found in wound and can be transmitted by the contact with the wounds. Usually gowns and gloves are worn in this type of infection.
Important point to remember is the safe disposal of dressing and discharges from the wounds and disinfection of articles. Strict isolation techniques should be followed when caring for patients with abscesses, boils, infected burns, gas gangrene, anthrax, rabies, etc.
All the articles used for these patients should be kept separated.Great care should be taken by the nurses to prevent cuts or abrasions on their hands, frequent and thorough hand washing reduces the chance of infection.
Blood isolation: This type of isolation is intended to prevent transmission of pathogens that are found in the blood. Therefore, any equipment that comes in contact with the patient’s blood should be carefully disinfected before touching another object or person. Use of mosquito nets also emphasized to prevent this type of infection. Principles in surgical asepsis is discussed in Table.
Following Precautions to be Taken While Caring for Infectious Patients
- Yearly physical examination including chest X-ray
- Well balanced diet
- Proper hand washing after elimination, before eating, before and after every procedure
- Proper immunization Children below 12 years should not be allowed in to the ward
- As far as possible maintain two bed to avoid cross infection
- Restrict visitors
- Proper health education to patient, visitor and relatives.
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