Using invasive or indwelling medical devices is a factor that

• A. Increases infection risk
• B. Decreases infection risk
• C. Has no effect on infection risk
• D. Guarantees infection

Answer: (A)

Invasive or indwelling devices create a pathway for microbes and provide surfaces where bacteria can attach and form biofilms. This disrupts the body’s natural barriers and defenses, making it easier for infections to develop. The risk grows the longer a device stays in place, and can lead from a local site infection to more serious bloodstream infections if microbes enter the circulation. Devices are often essential for treatment, but their use requires strict sterile technique, careful maintenance, and timely removal when no longer needed to minimize risk. It’s not that infections are guaranteed, and the risk isn’t decreased or unaffected by having a device; the presence of the device increases the chance of infection compared to not having one.