February 12, 2026   |  Infection

Several types of infections can affect your clients' health and well-being. This in-service will cover some of the most common illnesses and how you can manage their causes and prevent their spread.

Hand washing
Hand washing is the most essential tool in preventing the spread of infection. Hands should be washed under running water with soap, rubbing vigorously for at least 15–20 seconds or as long as it takes to sing 'Happy Birthday.' Antibacterial hand cleaner can also be used alongside proper hand washing techniques. Washing with soap and water is still necessary when hands are visibly soiled or if you feel a buildup of hand cleaner. You should wash your hands before and after contact with a client.

Wearing gloves is essential when you come into contact with blood or body fluids. You must wash your hands before putting on gloves and after removing them.

Gloves
Gloves must be changed after each client interaction and disposed of properly. Do not “snap' gloves when removing them; instead, carefully peel them off inside out to contain any blood or body fluids. Snapping gloves can splash contaminants onto your skin or into your eyes. Wash your hands before and after wearing gloves. Do not put on new gloves until you are ready to provide care. Gloves and hand washing protect both you and the client.

Masks
Masks are worn when there is a risk of droplet infection in respiratory illnesses like the flu or influenza. Masks should be worn when you are within 3 feet of an infected person because droplet transmission can occur at that distance. Masks should be discarded after each client contact. Do not remove your mask until you have washed your hands.

Urinary Tract Infections
Most UTIs are caused by E. coli infections, but other organisms can also be responsible. It is important to recognize that a certain number of bacteria and other organisms normally live in the urinary tract.

Signs and Symptoms of UTIs
• Painful urination
• Fever, abdominal, or back pain
• Cloudy or unusual appearance of urine
• Foul smell of urine

Common Causes of UTIs
• The most common cause of UTI is fecal contamination.
• Females may also have contamination of the urinary tract from organisms present in the vaginal area.
• In males, obstructions of the urinary tract, often related to the prostate, are a common cause.
• Poor voiding habits, such as delaying urination or not fully emptying the bladder.

Prevention of UTIs
• For females, wipe from front to back—start at the urinary meatus and wipe backward toward the rectal area. Do not reuse the washcloth after using it on the rectal area. This technique should be applied during baths and after each bowel movement for patients with incontinence. Continent clients should also be instructed to wipe front to back.
• Drinking plenty of fluids, especially water, helps to dilute bacteria in the urine.
• Avoid bladder irritants such as caffeine and aspartame—NutraSweet.
• Stay away from perfumed soaps and powders near the vaginal area.
• Ensure clients are properly toileted frequently or as soon as they need to void.

Treatment of UTIs
• Antibiotics will be ordered by the doctor
• Increase fluid intake during treatment of a UTI
• Follow the prevention methods above

Gastroenteritis
Gastroenteritis means inflammation of the stomach and intestines. It is commonly referred to as “stomach flu” but is not caused by influenza. Gastroenteritis commonly causes vomiting and or diarrhea. For most people gastroenteritis is not serious BUT for the elderly or disabled it can become serious and may require hospitalization for dehydration.

Signs and Symptoms
1. Watery diarrhea
2. Vomiting
3. Headache
4. Fever
5. Abdominal cramps
6. Symptoms begin 1-2 days following infection and last 1- 10 days

Prevention
• Frequent hand washing—wash hands before, after, and in between client contacts.
• Wear gloves when handling blood or body fluids; it is essential to wash hands before and after wearing gloves.
• Gowns should be worn if it is likely that your clothing will be contaminated through contact with body fluids or stool.
• Use caution when handling soiled linens, briefs, and clothing.
• Caregivers should not work with patients or handle food if they have an active gastrointestinal virus, as food can become contaminated and cause illness.
• Limit visitors who show signs and symptoms of illness.
• Wipe down tables and counters with a bleach solution—1/4 cup bleach to 1 gallon of water.
• Limit the movement of infected persons around the facility.

Treatment
• Encourage fluids (water) and rehydration products such as electrolyte replacement drinks and Sports drinks
• The doctor may order medication for symptoms – antibiotics are not indicated for viral infections and are ineffective
• Hospitalization and IV fluid replacement may be needed for severe cases of
• Dehydration

Flu or Influenza
Influenza, commonly referred to as the flu, typically occurs annually from December through April. The flu is characterized by fever and respiratory symptoms, and sometimes accompanied by vomiting and diarrhea. A common complication of the flu is pneumonia, especially in the elderly. Infected individuals are most contagious to others the day before and during the first three days of symptoms, but they can remain infectious for up to 7 days after symptoms appear.