Final answer:
Nursing diagnoses related to infection control take high priority to prevent severe complications and high mortality rates in medical settings due to infections like iatrogenic and nosocomial diseases, and to combat the challenge of antibiotic resistance.
Step-by-step explanation:
Nursing diagnoses related to infection control often take high priority because the presence of infections, especially in hospital settings, can lead to severe complications and high mortality rates. Infections such as iatrogenic and nosocomial diseases can occur post-procedures including treatments for wounds, catheterization, or surgeries. Infection control is critical because these environments harbor pathogens, and often, patients have compromised immune systems, increasing their susceptibility to infections. Additionally, antibiotic resistance is a growing concern in medical settings, making certain infections difficult to treat. Ensuring proper hygiene and sterilization of medical equipment are vital steps to prevent the progression of existing infections or the onset of new ones.
For instance, venous catheters, while lifesaving, can be a source of bloodstream infections if not managed correctly. Having knowledge of the specific bacteria, such as Staphylococcus epidermidis, and its antibiotic susceptibility is necessary to guide treatment. If a patient develops signs of infection, like fever or skin infections around a catheter, it becomes imperative to assess whether the antibiotic therapy is effective or if the catheter itself might be the source of re-infection.
Therefore, healthcare providers prioritize infection control to prevent the spread of infections, reduce the risk of evolving drug-resistant bacteria, and safeguard patient outcomes. Prioritization also aligns with factors such as the number of infections, severity of the illness, and the potential to treat or prevent diseases, as considered by organizations such as the CDC.