Major Flora of the Human Body - Essay Example

The functions include; competing with pathogenic microorganisms for nutrients, secreting certain chemicals to counter their harmful chemicals, and even stimulating the immune system. The mutualistic tendencies these microorganisms exhibit aid in the protection of the individual’s immune system, respiratory system, and even gut (Price & Frey 2003, p. 67). This is especially when it comes to fighting off pathogens. However, they can also cause diseases when not properly monitored.

Endogenous infections often occur as a result of the patient’s distorted resistance (immune). Some of the methods implemented to deal with exogenous infections include; sterilization, cleaning, and disinfection (Gruendemann & Mangum 2001, p. 43). In doing some of these operations, it is easier to reduce the manner in which an individual is exposed to a harmful external environment. A technique used to deal with endogenous infections includes; skin preparation, where the patient undergoes thorough screening to determine whether the skin may act as a contaminant or not. Antibiotic prophylaxis is also another method where the surroundings of the patient are treated to reduce or eliminate contamination (Gloster 2010, p. 57).