Risk for Infection | Nursing Care Plan for Hepatitis

Nursing diagnosis: risk for infection

Risk factors may include
Inadequate secondary defenses—leukopenia, suppressed inflammatory response
Immunosuppression
Malnutrition
Insufficient knowledge to avoid exposure to pathogens

Possibly evidenced by
(Not applicable; presence of signs and symptoms establishes an actual diagnosis)

Desired Outcomes/Evaluation Criteria—Client Will
Risk Control
Verbalize understanding of individual causative and risk factor(s).
Demonstrate techniques and initiate lifestyle changes to avoid reinfection and transmission to others.

Nursing intervention with rationale:
1. Establish isolation techniques for enteric and respiratory infections according to infection guidelines and policy. Model and emphasize need for effective hand washing.
Rationale: Prevents transmission of viral disease to others. Thorough hand washing is effective in preventing virus transmission. HAV and HEV are transmitted by oral-fecal route and contaminated water, milk, and food, especially inadequately cooked shellfish. Types A, B, C, and D are transmitted by contaminated blood or blood products; needle punctures; open wounds; and contact with saliva, urine, stool, and semen. Incidence of both HBV and HCV has increased among healthcare providers and high-risk clients. Note: Toxic and alcoholic types of hepatitis are not communicable and do not require special measures or isolation.

2. Stress need to monitor and restrict visitors, as indicated.
Rationale: Client exposure to infectious processes, especially respiratory, potentiates risk of secondary complications.

3. Explain isolation procedures to client and SO.
Rationale: Understanding reasons for safeguarding themselves and others can lessen feelings of isolation and stigmatization. Isolation may last 2 to 3 weeks from onset of illness, depending on type and duration of symptoms.

4. Administer anti-infective medications, as appropriate.
Rationale: Used to treat or limit secondary infections