Letter: n

A microbe that does not generally cause disease or infection, but may in opportunistic circumstances.

Relating to a hospital OR denoting a new disorder (not the patients original condition) associated with being treated in a hospital (or other healthcare facility), such as a hospital-acquired infection (HAI).

Normal body temperature [96.8-104?F (36-38?C] that does not interfere with normal body function; also known as euthermia.

Fabric construction that does not involve the inter-weaving of fibers. SYN. Single use fabrics, disposable fabrics.

The catheter is inserted directly into the target blood vessel from the insertion site. It is not tunneled through the subcutaneous tissues for stabilization, nor does it possess an anchoring cuff. A non-tunneled, non-cuffed central line catheter increases the risk of infection

Type of catheter used for venous access; short term, inserted into central veins, subclavian, internal jugular or femoral vein, major risk for CLABSI.

NSAIDs block the COX enzymes and reduce prostaglandins throughout the body. As a consequence, ongoing inflammation, pain, and fever are reduced. Since the prostaglandins that protect the stomach and support platelets and blood clotting are also reduced, NSAIDs can cause ulcers in the stomach and promote bleeding. NSAIDs are used primarily to treat inflammation, mild to moderate pain, and fever.

Host defenses that protect the body against any type of pathogen, regardless of the species or lack of previous exposure. (Examples include: complement cascade, fever (sequesters iron), neutrophils, etc.).

Non-fever causing. Reflects low levels of endotoxins (lipopolysaccharides) which, when elevated, cause fever, inflammation, endotoxic shock and elicit micro-thrombi formation (DIC). SEE endotoxin.

Nasogastric (tube)