Patient Care Technician Certification (PCTC) AMCA Practice Exam

What is referred to as the series of components that lead to infection?

1. Pathway of infection

2. Chain of infection

3. Infection cycle

4. Transmission dynamics

The correct answer is: Chain of infection

The term that accurately describes the series of components that lead to infection is the "chain of infection." This concept outlines the necessary elements for an infection to occur, which typically includes the infectious agent, reservoir, portal of exit, mode of transmission, portal of entry, and susceptible host. Each link in this chain is critical; if one link is broken, the spread of infection can be interrupted, thus preventing disease. Infection control strategies often focus on breaking these links—for example, through hand hygiene, vaccination, use of protective equipment, and proper sterilization techniques. Understanding the chain of infection is fundamental for healthcare professionals, particularly in settings where preventing the spread of infections is vital to patient safety and health outcomes.