Infectious Conjunctivitis Case Study: Healthcare Assessment

This case study focuses on an 88-year-old resident of a nursing home who developed infectious conjunctivitis. The assignment delves into the background of the condition, differentiating between various microorganisms and identifying Staphylococcus aureus as the likely causative agent. It explores the mechanism of action of gentamicin, the prescribed antibiotic, and its potential adverse reactions. The physiological basis of the patient's symptoms, including sticky discharge, swollen eyes, and redness, is explained. Furthermore, the case study addresses infection control issues, such as antimicrobial resistance and the contagious nature of the infection, and describes the transmission of the infection from the patient to another resident. Finally, it outlines procedures for breaking the chain of infection, emphasizing the importance of proper antibiotic use and educating healthcare professionals on preventive strategies like hand hygiene.