Letter: s

A culture-confirmed bloodstream infection related to infection at another site. For example, a patient has pneumonia with Pseudomonas aeruginosa, then grows the same pathogen in his blood cultures. The pneumonia is considered the primary infection site and the BSI is secondary to it.

The production of antibodies following subsequent exposures to an antigen. Generally, the response will be more rapid and effective.

Percutaneous catheter access to a vessel or space using a needle through which a guidewire is placed. The needle is subsequently removed and a catheter inserted over the guidewire.

Require a minimum of high level disinfection.

Of the operating room suite – an area where scrub attire is required. This area may include storage areas and corridors leading to restricted areas.

Ability of a test to detect a disease if the disease is truly present.

The physiological process of developing an allergy. Sensitization is an asymptomatic process until an individuals threshold level is reached. This requires repeated exposure to the antigen or allergen. Subsequent exposure may elicit allergic symptoms.

To increase the specific sensitivity of an individual to an antigen or allergen as the result of exposure. Sensitization is asymptomatic until threshold level is reached through repeated exposure. Subsequent exposure may elicit symptoms.

If IgE antibodies have been detected to the specific allergen in question, the individual is said to be sensitized. Being sensitized does not mean the individual has enough IgE antibodies on mast cells to have an allergic reaction. Thus a sensitized individual is not necessarily allergic (having symptoms).

Afferent/ascending, pathways; going toward the center; opposite of efferent.