PrepU Chapter 23: Asepsis and Infection Control

The nurse conducting an in-service on hand hygiene determines that additional education is needed when a participant states which of the following?

"I do not need to wash my hands if I am using gloves."

The nurse is caring for a client with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The client currently has no signs or symptoms of the disease, but the nurse teaches the client that she may transmit this disease to another person. What term is used to describe an individual who is asymptomatic but can transmit the disease?

Carrier

Which statement best explains the rationale for bringing an extra pair of sterile gloves into an adult client's room before preparing for a sterile procedure?

If the first pair is contaminated and needs to be replaced, the nurse does not need to leave the room for a new pair.

When preparing to use a bottle of sterile saline for a dressing change, the nurse notes that the date it was opened was two days previous. What should the nurse do?

Obtain a new bottle of sterile saline

The nurse is completing a sterile dressing change on a confused client. During the procedure, the client reaches down and touches the contents of the open dressing kit. What should the nurse do?

Open a new sterile dressing kit

After changing the bed linens for a client, the nurse uses an alcohol-based handrub to perform hand antisepsis. What is the proper way to use an alcohol-based handrub?

Rub the product between the hands until they are dry.

The nurse begins a task and then realizes that personal protective equipment (PPE) is needed. What is the correct action by the nurse?

Stop and obtain appropriate PPE

A nurse who has finished cleansing and dressing the wound of a young client now needs to change the dressings of a client in the burn unit. Which action should the nurse perform, keeping in mind the importance of asepsis and client comfort?

Wash hands thoroughly and then wear sterile gloves.

When caring for a client with a respiratory infection, the nurse washes her hands frequently and thoroughly. What are the other precautionary steps the nurse should take in order to prevent infection?

Wear a mask when talking to the client.

When is hand hygiene with an alcohol-based rub appropriate, as opposed to using handwashing?

when hands are not visibly soiled