the most common cause of hospital acquired infections hais are

ATI TEAS 7

ATI TEAS 7 science review

1. What is the most common cause of hospital-acquired infections (HAIs)?

A. Viruses
B. Bacteria
C. Fungi
D. Parasites

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Hospital-acquired infections (HAIs), also known as nosocomial infections, are infections that patients acquire during the course of receiving treatment in a healthcare facility. Among the options provided, bacteria are the most common cause of HAIs. Bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa are known to cause a wide range of infections in healthcare settings. While viruses, fungi, and parasites can also cause HAIs, bacteria are the most prevalent and significant pathogens responsible for these infections. Proper infection control measures, including hand hygiene, environmental cleaning, and antimicrobial stewardship, are essential in preventing and controlling HAIs caused by bacteria.

2. Which of the following is an example of a salt?

A. Sodium hydroxide (NaOH)
B. Hydrochloric acid (HCl)
C. Sodium chloride (NaCl)
D. Sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄)

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Sodium chloride (NaCl) is an example of a salt. Salts are ionic compounds formed by the reaction of an acid with a base. In this case, sodium chloride is formed by the reaction of sodium hydroxide (a base) with hydrochloric acid (an acid). Sodium hydroxide (NaOH), hydrochloric acid (HCl), and sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄) are not salts because they are not formed by the neutralization reaction of an acid and a base, which is a characteristic of salts.

3. What is the difference between active and passive immunity?

A. Active immunity is short-lived, while passive immunity is long-lasting.
B. Active immunity involves the body's own immune response, while passive immunity provides immediate protection through antibodies from another source.
C. Active immunity only protects against bacterial infections, while passive immunity works against both bacteria and viruses.
D. Passive immunity requires repeated vaccinations, while active immunity is a one-time process.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Active immunity involves the body's own immune response, where the individual's immune system produces antibodies in response to exposure to a pathogen or vaccine. This type of immunity is long-lasting because the immune system 'remembers' the pathogen and can mount a rapid response upon re-exposure. In contrast, passive immunity provides immediate protection through the transfer of pre-formed antibodies from another source, such as through maternal antibodies crossing the placenta or receiving antibodies through an injection. Passive immunity is short-lived because the transferred antibodies eventually degrade and are not produced by the recipient's immune system. Choice A is incorrect because active immunity is generally long-lasting, as it involves the production of antibodies by the individual's immune system. Choice C is incorrect as both active and passive immunity can work against various pathogens, not limited to bacteria or viruses. Choice D is incorrect as passive immunity does not require repeated vaccinations but provides temporary protection through the transfer of antibodies from an external source.

4. What happens during a physical change in matter?

A. A new substance with different properties is formed
B. The chemical composition of the substance changes
C. The original substance can be recovered by physical means
D. Energy is either released or absorbed

Correct answer: C

Rationale: During a physical change in matter, the original substance undergoes a change in its physical state or appearance without any change in its chemical composition. This means that the original substance can be recovered by physical means, such as melting, freezing, boiling, or condensing. No new substance is formed (option A), the chemical composition remains the same (option B), and energy changes can occur but are not a defining characteristic of a physical change (option D). The ability to recover the original substance by physical means distinguishes physical changes from chemical changes.

5. Which vitamin is produced when the skin is exposed to sunlight?

A. Vitamin A
B. Vitamin D
C. Vitamin K
D. Vitamin E

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Vitamin D is the correct answer. When the skin is exposed to sunlight, it triggers a process where a form of cholesterol in the skin is converted into vitamin D. This vitamin plays a crucial role in aiding calcium absorption in the gut, which is essential for maintaining strong and healthy bones. Vitamin A (Choice A) is important for vision and immune function but is not produced by sunlight exposure. Vitamin K (Choice C) is known for its role in blood clotting and bone metabolism, but it is not produced by sunlight. Vitamin E (Choice D) is an antioxidant that protects cells from damage but is not synthesized in the skin through sunlight exposure.