Which risk factor for health care-associated infections should a nurse highlight to a newly licensed nurse?

Highlighting prolonged use of corticosteroids as a risk factor for health care-associated infections is important due to the immunosuppressive effects these medications have on the body. Corticosteroids can significantly reduce the immune response, making patients more susceptible to infections. This is particularly vital for newly licensed nurses to understand, as it directly impacts the management and monitoring of patients who are on long-term corticosteroid therapy.

In contrast, while prolonged use of antibiotics can contribute to the development of antimicrobial resistance, which complicates infection management, it is not primarily a direct risk factor for acquiring infections in the same way that corticosteroids compromise the immune system. Similarly, prolonged use of beta-blockers and analgesics does not primarily elevate the risk of health care-associated infections. Instead, it’s crucial for nursing professionals to be aware of how medications that suppress the immune system increase the overall vulnerability of patients to infections within healthcare settings. Understanding this will guide the newly licensed nurse in patient care, assessment, and preventive measures against infections.