Mastering Infection Prevention
We’ll share proven strategies to help you master infection control concepts and excel in your exam:
Memory Techniques for Key Concepts
🦠 Chain of Infection Mnemonic: “PRIME-S”
- Pathogen
- Reservoir
- Index of Exit
- Mode of transmission
- Entry point
- Susceptible host
🧤 PPE Donning Order: “GMOG”
- Gown
- Mask
- Eye protection (goggles)
- Gloves
Focus on High-Priority Topics
⭐ Prioritize these frequently tested areas:
- Hand hygiene protocols
- Standard precautions
- Transmission-based precautions
- PPE sequence
- Cross-contamination prevention
Question Analysis Strategy
📖 Use the “READ” method:
- Read the question twice
- Eliminate obvious wrong answers
- Analyze remaining choices
- Determine the best answer based on infection control principles
Visual Learning Tips
🖼️ Create mental images:
- Visualize the proper handwashing sequence
- Picture isolation room setups
- Imagine PPE removal zones
- Draw simple diagrams of infection chains
Practice Application Techniques
❓ Ask yourself:
- “Why is this procedure necessary?”
- “What could happen if this step is skipped?”
- “How does this protect the patient AND me?”
- “What comes first, and why?”
Exam-Specific Strategies
📌 Remember these key points:
- Look for absolute words (always, never, must)
- Pay attention to question scenarios
- Consider both patient and personal safety
- Think about cost-effective, practical solutions
Common Question Patterns
👀 Watch for questions about:
- First steps in procedures
- Best initial actions
- Most important reasons
- Priority-setting scenarios
Test-Taking Tips for Infection Control Questions
✅ When answering:
- Read all options before choosing
- Look for the most complete answer
- Consider standard precautions as the baseline
- Remember that hand hygiene is often the first step
🛠️ Use these methods:
- Create flashcards for isolation types
- Practice PPE sequences physically
- Draw chains of infection
- Explain concepts to others
⏳ Before the exam:
- Review common infectious diseases
- Practice time management
- Focus on rationales, not just procedures
- Study isolation precaution charts
Quick Reference Guide:
Remember these priorities:
- Hand hygiene is usually the first and last step
- Standard precautions apply to ALL patients
- Safety comes before speed
- When in doubt, protect yourself and others
- Prevention is better than containment
Red Flags to Watch For:
- Questions about “first step”
- Scenarios involving multiple patients
- Situations requiring PPE changes
- Questions about reporting requirements
Great work! Test your knowledge with our practice questions to reinforce what you’ve learned.