Chapter 6, Problem 1TMW

Why should cardiac nurses and respiratory therapists care about biofilms?

Summary Introduction

To tell:

The reason why the respiratory therapists and cardiac nurses care about the biofilms.

Introduction:

Biofilm is the key residence of microbes in nature. Certain molecules that are secreted by the bacteria can be detected by other bacteria. Biofilms are formed by the adhesion of bacterial community to various surfaces, like the human body, metals, and soil particles. The bacterial cell is surrounded by a gelatinous layer known as a capsule. It is irregular in nature. These structures are useful for the bacteria for their attachment to the surfaces. The dental plaque in human is an example of biofilm.

The microbial cells within the biofilm matrix yield the components of extracellular polysaccharide substances, in short EPS. The EPS consist of proteins, polysaccharides, and deoxyribose nucleic acid (DNA).

Explanation of Solution

The dental plaque is an example of biofilm formation. This can cause bacterial infections like septicemia, which harm the cardiovascular system. If the medical equipments are not sterilized properly, the biofilm remains alive on them. Unsterilized pacemakers can result in recurring infections. Unclean nebulizers and oxygen supplies may harbor biofilms, which lead to infections (cystic fibrosis) in the respiratory tracts. Generally, the patients have a suppressed immune system. Therefore, they are easily susceptible to infections. Hence, the respiratory therapists and cardiac nurses should care about the biofilms.

Conclusion

The respiratory therapists and cardiac nurses should care about the biofilms to safeguard the patients from infections.