To stop infections, you first have to understand how they spread. The "chain of infection" is a simple model that shows the six links germs need to travel — and breaking any link stops the spread. Expect this on the exam.
The Six Links
- Infectious agent — the germ itself (bacteria, virus, fungus).
- Reservoir — where the germ lives (a person, equipment, water).
- Portal of exit — how it leaves (coughing, blood, stool).
- Mode of transmission — how it travels (hands, droplets, surfaces).
- Portal of entry — how it gets in (mouth, nose, broken skin).
- Susceptible host — a person who can get sick (often the elderly or ill).
How PSWs Break the Chain
- Hand hygiene — the single most effective way to break transmission.
- Clean and disinfect surfaces and equipment.
- Cover coughs and dispose of waste properly.
- Use PPE to block portals of entry and exit.
- Support clients' health so they're less susceptible.
The Key Point
You don't have to break every link — breaking just one stops the infection. And the easiest link to break is almost always transmission, through good hand hygiene.
🔑 Key Takeaways
- The chain has 6 links; breaking one stops infection.
- Hand hygiene is the most effective way to break it.
- PPE blocks the portals of entry and exit.
- The susceptible host is often elderly or ill.