Infection Control (ISB & Post Tests)

What are the 6 elements in the chain of infection?

1) An infectious agent or pathogen (e.g., bacteria, viruses, fungi, protozoa). 2) A reservoir or source for pathogen growth (e.g., humans, animals, food, water, insects, inanimate objects). 3) A portal of exit from the reservoir (e.g., skin and mucous membranes, respiratory tract, urinary tract, gastrointestinal tract, reproductive tract, and blood). 4) A mode of transmission (e.g., hands of health care workers, equipment used within the environment, droplet nuclei). 5) A portal of entry to the host (e.g., skin and mucous membranes, respiratory tract, urinary tract, gastrointestinal tract, reproductive tract, and blood). 6) A susceptible host.

What are the 5 instances in which the RN should perform hand hygiene?

1) Before touching a patient 2) Before clean/aseptic procedures (e.g. insertion of invasive devices, hygiene care), 3) After body fluid exposure/risk (e.g. contacted during bathing, dressing changes, specimen collection), 4) After touching a patient 5) After touching patient surroundings (e.g. overbed table, bed linen, IV pump). Also perform hand hygiene after removing gloves.

The recommended duration for lathering hands is at least ________ seconds.

15 15-20 seconds

How many mL's of soap should be dispensed for HH?

3-5 mL

You are evaluating the performance of hand washing and notice an area of soiling at the wrist. What action should you take next? A) Repeat the hand-washing procedure. B) Rinse the soiling off and dry well. C) Cover up the area with your sleeve. D) Use an alcohol-based hand rub.

A

It is determined that the patient has developed a health care-associated infection of Pseudomonas pneumonia that developed from the presence of contaminated water and a dirty health care environment. What measures can be taken to help break the chain of infection? (Select all that apply.) A) Performing hand hygiene before and after contact with the patient B) Discarding standing water and rinsing cups after use. C) Teaching the patient and family about the source and transmission of infections, the reason for susceptibility, and infection-control principles D) Having the patient wear an oxygen mask

A B C

You are going to perform a procedure. What considerations should be made regarding the choice of gloves? (Select all that apply.) A) The presence or absence of latex allergy B) Glove size C) Sterile or nonsterile procedure D) Whether the patient has a communicable disease

A B C

Which of the following are high-risk factors for latex allergy? Select all that apply. A) Food allergy to bananas, tomatoes, and peaches B) History of spina bifida C) Occupation as a food handler D) Food allergy to strawberries, shellfish, and peanuts E) Health care worker F) History of multiple surgeries E) History of respiratory disease

A B C E F

The most effective way to prevent transmission of infection is performing hand hygiene and ________.

Wear Gloves

Medical Aesepsis

also known as clean technique, includes procedures that reduce the number of organisms and prevent their transfer. Examples are of principles of hand hygiene, barrier techniques (e.g. applying gloves or gowns), and routine environmental cleaning

What are standard percautions?

are for the care of all patients regardless of risk or presumed infection status. Standard precautions are the primary strategies for prevention of infection transmission and apply to contact with blood, body fluids, nonintact skin, respiratory secretions, mucous membranes, and equipment or surfaces contaminated with these potentially infectious materials.

Standard Precautions apply to

blood, blood products, all body fluids, secretions, excretions (except sweat), nonintact skin, and mucous membranes

A nurse reads the following documentation in a patient's electronic health record: "92-year-old female complains of frequent nonproductive cough. States has been taking PO steroids as prescribed. Denies having received pneumonia vaccine. B. Jones, R.N." Based on this information, what factors place this patient at risk for being a susceptible host? (Select all that apply.) A) Hospitalized B) Nutritional Status C) Age D) Gender E) Vaccination Status F) Medical Therapy

hospitalized vaccination status age medical therapy Being hospitalized, of older age, and on steroids (which may suppress the immune response) and failure to be immunized place the patient at risk for being a susceptible host. There is no mention of a deficient nutritional status. Gender does not affect susceptibility to infection.

Aseptic technique

refers to practices and procedures that help reduce the risk for infection. The two types of aseptic technique nurses practice are medical and surgical asepsis.

A patient has a diagnosis of Clostridium difficile. What is most important for the nurse to convey to the NAP regarding this patient's care? A.) To wash hands with soap and water before and after caring for the patient. B.) To use an alcohol-based hand rub after removing gloves. C.) To wear an N-95 mask when in the patient's room. D.) To avoid caring for other patients with C. difficile to prevent cross contamination.

A. To wash hands with soap and water before and after caring for the patient. If patient is being treated for C. difficille infection clean hands with soap and water. Alcohol-based hand rubs are not effective against the spores of C. difficile. Standard and contact precautions are used for patients with C. difficile. An N-95 mask would be unnecessary. Cross contamination of C. difficile will not occur if both patients already have C. difficile.

After performing hand hygiene, you open the outside cover of the sterile kit, remove the kit from the outside cover, and place it on a clean work surface below waist level. You open the outermost flap toward the body. You grasp the outside surface of the edge of the first flap and pull it to the side, allowing it to lie flat on the table surface. You do the same for the second side flap. You then grasp the outside border of the last and innermost flap and pull the flap away from you toward the top of the table, allowing it to fall flat on the work surface. To add sterile supplies to the sterile field, you open the sterile item by peeling back the outer wrapper over the nondominant hand (making sure the wrapper never touches the sterile field), then place the item onto the field at an angle so that the arm never reaches over the field.Which of the following steps, if any, require correction? Select all that apply. A) The level of the table. B) The method the nurse used to open the first outermost flap. C) The method the nurse used to open the side flap(s). D) The method the nurse used to open the last innermost flap. E) The nurse performed all steps correctly.

A B D

You are assigned to a postoperative patient who underwent knee replacement surgery and had an ankle pinned. You must perform a dressing change and provide pin care, which requires creating and maintaining a sterile field. What would be evidence of the patient meeting the expected outcome 24 hours after the procedure? (Select all that apply.) A) Afebrile B) WBC within normal limits of 5000 to 10,000 per mm3 C) Purulent drainage noted at pin site D) Absence of tenderness or edema at surgical sites

A B D

Determine which tasks indicate hand hygiene should be performed. (Select all that apply.) A) Changing the dressing on a wound B) Getting the patient a magazine C) Administering an IV push medication into a patient's IV with a needleless system D) Checking the patient's blood pressure E) Adjusting the height on the bed by using foot pedals

A C D

Which of the following outcomes are related to sterile gloving? (Select all that apply.) A) Foul odor from wound B) Hemoglobin 14 g/dL C) Cyanosis D) Redness at wound site E) Increased warmth of skin at wound site F) Skin appears red and itches

A D E F

The NAP complains of his hands hurting and skin being chapped. What would be the appropriate suggestion for the NAP? (SATA) A) Use hand lotion from an individual use container B) Decrease the frequency of hang hygiene until healed C) Wear clean latex-free gloves at all times D) Be sure to rinse and dry hands thoroughly E) Avoid excessive amounts of soap or antiseptic

A) Use hand lotion from an individual use container D) Be sure to rinse and dry hands thoroughly E) Avoid excessive amounts of soap or antiseptic Using a small amount of approve lotion or barrier cream after performing hand hygiene helps minimize dryness. Large containers of hand lotion have been found to harbor pathogens; small individual-use containers are preferred. Rinsing off all soap and drying the hands well prevents chapping and roughened skin. Excessive amounts of soap or antiseptic can increase chapping; use the amount suggested by manufacturer and try various products. HH reamains essential to preventing the transmission of microorganisms in patient care. Wearing gloves all of the time may only increase dermatitis, and gloves do not take the place of performing HH

Which of the following patients are at risk for developing an infection? (Select all that apply.) A.) A patient receiving chemotherapy. B.) A patient who has an early discharge from the hospital. C.) A patient in a private room. D.) A patient with an IV. E.) A patient receiving broad spectrum antibiotics. F.) A patient with a chronic respiratory disease receiving steroid therapy.

A.) A patient receiving chemotherapy. D.) A patient with an IV. E.) A patient receiving broad spectrum antibiotics. F.) A patient with a chronic respiratory disease receiving steroid therapy. Risk factors for healthcare-associated infection include crowding within a healthcare facility and the patient's length of stay. In addition, infection is more likely to develop in persons with chronic illness or compromised immunity. In all settings, patients may have procedures or treatments that lower their resistance to infections. For example, patients' immune systems may be altered after receiving chemotherapy or broad spectrum antibiotics; therefore, they are more susceptible to infections, even from their own normal flora. In addition, invasive procedures, such as the insertion of intravenous or urinary catheters, disrupt the body's natural defense barriers.

A small group of nursing students is giving a teaching presentation on the principles of surgical asepsis. Which of the following standards are appropriate to include in the presentation? (Select all that apply.) A.) A sterile barrier that has been permeated by moisture must be considered contaminated. B.) A sterile object or field out of the range of vision or an object held below a person's waist is considered contaminated. C.) A sterile field or object cannot become contaminated by air. D.) If there is any doubt about an item's sterility, the item is considered to be unsterile. E.) All items used within a sterile field must be sterile.

A.) A sterile barrier that has been permeated by moisture must be considered contaminated. B.) A sterile object or field out of the range of vision or an object held below a person's waist is considered contaminated. D.) If there is any doubt about an item's sterility, the item is considered to be unsterile. E.) All items used within a sterile field must be sterile. A sterile surface that comes in contact with moisture must be considered contaminated. A sterile object or field out of the range of vision or an object held below a person's waist is considered contaminated. A sterile object or field becomes contaminated by prolonged exposure to air; stay organized, and complete any procedure as soon as possible. If there is any doubt about an item's sterility, the item is considered to be unsterile. All items used within a sterile field must be sterile.

When is it acceptable to use antiseptic hand rub rather than soap and water? (Select all that apply.) A.) After adjusting a nasal cannula on a patient. B.) After removing gloves after changing a wound dressing. Correct C.) When the nurse's hands are cracked from frequent hand hygiene. D.) After moving patient's belongings on the bedside table. E.) After the patient develops a skin tear and blood is on the nurse's hand. F.) When the patient has been diagnosed with C. difficile.

A.) After adjusting a nasal cannula on a patient. B.) After removing gloves after changing a wound dressing. D.) After moving patient's belongings on the bedside table. When hands are visibly dirty or contaminated with proteinaceous material or visibly soiled with blood or other body fluids, you need to wash your hands with soap and water. If hands are not visibly soiled, use an alcohol-based hand rub for routinely decontaminating hands, such as after contact with inanimate objects (including medical equipment) in the immediate vicinity of a patient and after removing gloves. If repeated use of soaps or antiseptics have caused dermatitis or cracked skin, the nurse should rinse and dry hands thoroughly after using soap and water and avoid excessive amounts of soap or antiseptic. A hand lotion or barrier cream may be applied after hand hygiene. Hands should be washed with soap and water if a patient has C. difficile. Alcohol-based hand rubs are not effective against C. difficile spores.

When should you perform hand hygiene? (Select all that apply.) A.) Before applying gloves to insert an IV. B.) After documenting in the patient's electronic medical record. C.) After moving a patient up in bed. D.) Before assessing a patient's vital signs. E.) Before touching clean linens.

A.) Before applying gloves to insert an IV. C.) After moving a patient up in bed. D.) Before assessing a patient's vital signs. You should perform hand hygiene before putting on sterile gloves and before inserting indwelling urinary catheters, peripheral vascular catheters, or other invasive devices. You should perform hand hygiene after contact with a patient's intact skin (e.g., after assessing a patient's vital signs or moving a patient in bed). Unless the hands are visibly soiled, it is unnecessary to perform hand hygiene after documentation. If you touch an object that is not visibly soiled, such as clean linens, hand washing is unnecessary at that time.

The nurse is working in a busy emergency room. On entering station 1, the nurse dons a pair of clean disposable gloves. The nurse sees that the patient has a gunshot wound to the chest, and is concerned there may be splattering of infectious materials. The nurse applies goggles, a mask, and a gown. What is this called? A.) Following standard precautions. B.) Using medical asepsis. C.) Using surgical asepsis.Infection control to prevent a healthcare-acquired infection. D. Infection control to prevent a healthcare-acquired infection.

A.) Following standard precautions. The nurse is demonstrating the use of standard precautions. Standard precautions are used to protect the nurse from potential contact with blood and body fluids. Because there is a risk of being splattered with infectious materials, the nurse should use gloves, mask, eye protection, and a gown. Standard precautions should become a routine part of her practice and thus be observed in every patient encounter. Medical asepsis (or clean technique), includes procedures used to reduce the number of and prevent the spread of microorganisms. Surgical asepsis (or sterile technique), includes procedures used to eliminate all microorganisms from an area. Healthcare-acquired infections are those that develop as a result of a stay or visit in a health care facility and that were absent at the time of admission.

Under which circumstance(s) should hand washing be repeated? (Select all that apply.) A.) Hands touch the sink during hand washing. B.) Areas under fingernails remain soiled. C.) Cracked areas are noted on the nurse's hands. D.) Hands are free of visible soiling. E.) Hands are lowered below waist level.

A.) Hands touch the sink during hand washing. B.) Areas under fingernails remain soiled. The inside of the sink is a contaminated area. If the hands touch the sink during hand washing, the hand washing procedure should be repeated. If the hands or areas under fingernails remain soiled, repeat hand washing with soap and water. If the nurse's hands are cracked, rinse and dry hands thoroughly. Hand washing does not require repeating as this would only dry out the skin more. Hands lowered below the waist do not require repeated hand washing as this skill is utilizing clean technique, not sterile technique.

A new quality assurance program has been instituted on the unit because of a higher than average infection rate. Which of the following could be factors responsible for this increase? (Select all that apply.) A.) Nurse A wears artificial nails. B.) Nurse B performs hand hygiene between patients. C.) Nurse C wears rings on her fingers. D.) Nurse D has fingernails less than ¼ inch long. E.) Nurse E has open cuts on her hand. F.) Nurse F has chipped nail polish.

A.) Nurse A wears artificial nails. C.) Nurse C wears rings on her fingers. E.) Nurse E has open cuts on her hand. F.) Nurse F has chipped nail polish. Healthcare workers who wear artificial nails are more likely to harbor gram-negative pathogens on their fingertips than are those who have natural nails. Microorganisms tend to colonize under rings. Open cuts may harbor increased numbers of microorganisms and should be covered. Chipped nail polish may support the growth of larger numbers of organisms on fingernails. Hand hygiene should be performed before providing patient care, and fingernails should be kept less than ¼ inch in length.

Which of the following are symptoms of latex allergy? (Select all that apply.) A.) Skin redness. B.) Itching. C.) Purulent drainage. D.) Edema. E.) Difficulty breathing. F.) Elevated temperature.

A.) Skin redness. B.) Itching. D.) Edema.E.) Difficulty breathing. Symptoms of latex allergy may vary in degree and may include redness and itching, hives, localized swelling, itchy or runny eyes and nose, coughing, rash, wheezing, bronchospasm, difficulty breathing, laryngeal edema, diarrhea, nausea, hypotension, tachycardia, and respiratory or cardiac arrest. Purulent drainage and elevated temperature may indicate infection.

The nurse is preparing a sterile field. Which of the following would be considered contamination of the field? (Select all that apply.) A.) Some of the sterile normal saline spills onto the sterile barrier. B.) Non-sterile items are added to the sterile field. C.) The nurse prepares the sterile field and leaves the room to get more sterile supplies. D.) The nurse prepares the sterile field immediately before the procedure. E.) When a sterile item falls off the sterile field, the nurse opens a new sterile item.

A.) Some of the sterile normal saline spills onto the sterile barrier. B.) Non-sterile items are added to the sterile field. C.) The nurse prepares the sterile field and leaves the room to get more sterile supplies. If the sterile barrier becomes wet (strikethrough), it is considered contaminated. Only sterile items should be added to a sterile field. The nurse should keep the sterile field in view to prevent unobserved contamination. A sterile field is established immediately before the procedure because there is a direct relationship between the time the sterile field is opened and the presence of airborne contaminants. If a sterile item falls off the sterile field, the nurse should open a new sterile item and add it to the field, unless the field was contaminated.

The nurse manager is reviewing the use of standard precautions with the staff. Which of the following should be included in the review? (Select all that apply.) A.) Standard precautions are used to protect you from potential contact with blood and body fluids. B.) Standard precautions should be observed in every patient encounter. C.) Standard precautions refer only to the use of gloves; not to the use of masks, eye protection, or gowns, as these refer to other types of precautions. D.) To follow standard precautions, you must wear sterile gloves. E.) To follow standard precautions, you must wear sterile gloves.

A.) Standard precautions are used to protect you from potential contact with blood and body fluids. B.) Standard precautions should be observed in every patient encounter. Standard precautions are used to protect you from potential contact with blood and body fluids and should be observed in every patient encounter. Besides gloving, standard precautions include the use of masks, eye protection, and gowns when there is a risk of being splattered with infectious materials. Surgical asepsis (sterile technique) requires the use of sterile gloves. Clean gloves may be worn when following standard precautions. Any patient may be a source of infection and should be treated as such rather than waiting until a pathogen is identified.

The nurse is preparing to insert a urinary catheter. To perform this procedure, the nurse will use: A.) Surgical asepsis (sterile technique). B.) Medical asepsis (clean technique). C.) Droplet precautions. D.) Standard precautions.

A.) Surgical asepsis (sterile technique). Inserting a urinary catheter requires sterile technique (surgical asepsis) to prevent the introduction of any microorganisms into the urinary bladder during the procedure. Medical asepsis (clean technique) is used to reduce the number or transmission of microorganisms and includes hand hygiene, wearing clean disposable gloves, etc. Droplet precautions are a type of standard precaution in which the recommended barrier method includes the use of a mask. Standard precautions refers to wearing PPE when there is potential contact with blood or body fluids. It does not specifically warrant sterile technique.

One evaluation measure of creating and maintaining a sterile field involves monitoring the patient for developing signs and symptoms of localized or systemic infection. Which of the following is cause for concern? A.) Temperature of 102.5° F. B.) Incisional area light pink in color. C.) White blood cell count at 6500 per mm3. D.) Absence of purulent drainage.

A.) Temperature of 102.5° F. An elevation in temperature is an indication of systemic infection. An incision may appear pink in color. Cause for concern would be if the incision had redness, edema, and/or tenderness. An elevated WBC above 10,000 per mm3 would indicate infection. Purulent drainage (e.g., yellow, green, or brown) is an indication of localized infection, as is a foul odor from the site.

The nurse is caring for four individuals. Which patient would be most at-risk for infection? A.) The patient who is receiving immunosuppressive medication. B.) The patient who is unable to shower without assistance. C.) The patient with a history of a latex allergy. D.) The patient who exercises daily in a swimming pool.

A.) The patient who is receiving immunosuppressive medication. The patient receiving immunosuppressive medication would have an impaired or delayed response to antigens and would be at increased risk for infection. This would include such medications as steroids and chemotherapeutic drugs. Contact sports places a patient at-risk for certain infections. Hypoallergenic (latex-free) gloves can be used with patients who have an allergy to latex. Requiring assistance to bathe does not place the person at-risk for infection. The patient may still receive hygienic care.

Why are the hands rinsed with the fingertips held lower than the wrist? A.) Water flows from the least to the most contaminated area, rinsing microorganisms into the sink. B.) To keep the sleeves from getting wet. C.) It is necessary to ensure that all surfaces of the hands, including under the nails, are cleansed. D.) To loosen and remove dirt and bacteria.

A.) Water flows from the least to the most contaminated area, rinsing microorganisms into the sink. The hands and forearms are kept lower than the elbows, and the fingertips are kept lower than the wrists during washing to promote the flow of water from the least to the most contaminated area, rinsing microorganisms into the sink. Use of an adequate amount of detergent and vigorous lathering and rubbing of the hands together for an appropriate length of time (15 seconds) ensures that all surfaces of the hands and fingers are covered and cleansed. Friction and rubbing mechanically loosen and remove dirt and transient bacteria.

When are sterile gloves necessary? A.) When performing a sterile procedure. B.) If blood or body fluids are present. C.) If the patient is placed on isolation. D.) When performing postmortem care.

A.) When performing a sterile procedure. Sterile gloves or a no-touch technique should be used when performing any sterile procedure.

The nurse is reviewing with the surgical technician how to prepare a sterile field. Which of the following should be included in the discussion? (Select all that apply.) A.) When preparing a sterile field, unwrap the commercial tray by beginning with the outermost flap and unfolding it in the direction away from the sterile kit toward the top of what will be the sterile field. B.) If there is any question or doubt of an item's sterility, the item is considered to be nonsterile. C.) When using a sterile barrier, touch only the outer 2 inches (5 cm) of the border, as this is considered nonsterile. D.) When using a sterile drape, position the bottom half of the sterile drape over the top of the intended sterile field.E.) When pouring a solution, if some spills onto the sterile barrier, cover the spill with sterile gauze.

A.) When preparing a sterile field, unwrap the commercial tray by beginning with the outermost flap and unfolding it in the direction away from the sterile kit toward the top of what will be the sterile field. B.) If there is any question or doubt of an item's sterility, the item is considered to be nonsterile. D.) When using a sterile drape, position the bottom half of the sterile drape over the top of the intended sterile field. You should open the outermost flap away from the body, keeping the arm outstretched and away from the sterile field. Whenever there is any question or doubt of an item's sterility, the item is considered to be nonsterile, and new supplies should be obtained. When using a sterile drape, hold the drape at the corners and position the bottom half over the top half of intended work surface. Then allow top half of drape to be placed over bottom half of work surface.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Guidelines, an alcohol-based hand rub is used for routine decontamination in which of the following situations? Select all that apply. A) When a patient's mucus accidentally gets on the nurse's hand. B) Before having direct contact with patients. C) After contact with objects in the immediate vicinity of a patient. D) After a patient develops a skin tear and blood is present on both the patient and the nurse's hands. E) After removing gloves.

B C E

According to the basic rules of creating and maintaining a sterile field, which of the following is correct? A) A sterile field is prepared and covered with a sterile drape until ready to use. B) The sterile field is within your view. C) The sterile field is established immediately before the procedure to keep sterile from nonsterile instruments. D) Sterile and nonsterile items are placed on the sterile drape for use.

B

One of the student nurses voices concern that she will bring home "something" to her 2-year-old child and husband because she is exposed to so many different illnesses in the clinical setting. What is the best advice her peer can offer? A) "Don't worry. Your family is current on their immunizations." B) "Following good hand hygiene practices will protect both you and your family." C) "You should take a shower first thing when you get home." D) "Just wear gloves whenever you are caring for patients and this will interrupt the mode of transmission."

B

The expected outcome for wearing sterile gloves is: A) Prevention of contamination of a sterile field B) Prevention of localized or systemic infection C) Protection from exposure to blood/body fluids D) Fewer germs transmitted between patients

B

Which description correctly identifies a health care-associated infection (HAI)? A) The patient receives IV antibiotics while hospitalized. B) The infection was not present at the time of admission. C) The six elements of the chain of infection remain intact. D) The patient is colonized with drug-resistant organisms.

B

You are preparing a sterile field when you realize you will need more sterile gauze for the dressing change. What action should you take? A) Go and get more sterile gauze before initiating the actual dressing change. B) Turn on the call light and request more sterile gauze from the person that responds. C) Discard the sterile field and its materials, obtain the necessary supplies, and start over. D) Perform the dressing change using what sterile gauze is available.

B

What method would the nurse use to evaluate the outcome of a sterile dressing change? (Select all that apply.) A) Ask the patient questions regarding the procedure to determine the patient's level of knowledge. B) Inspect the treated area for signs of localized infection. C) Evaluate the patient for signs of systemic infection.

B C

A patient is admitted with a diagnosis of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) found in the sputum. In addition to using standard precautions, what action should the nurse take? A) Institute airborne precautions and place patient in a negative pressure airflow room. B) Institute contact precautions. C) Have the patient and visitors wear a mask at all times. D) No additional actions are necessary because the patient is already colonized with MRSA.

B

A nurse on a busy medical unit has multiple tasks to perform. A patient is scheduled to have his dressing changed every 48 hours. It is time for the dressing to be changed again when the nurse notices a foul odor. The nurse decides to go ahead and change the dressing and requests that the NAP check the patient's temperature. The nurse premedicates the patient for pain with acetaminophen with codeine (Tylenol with codeine) before the dressing change. The nurse performs hand hygiene, dons nonsterile gloves, and removes the previous dressing. The nurse notices that there is increased redness around the wound and purulent yellow drainage on the dressing that was removed. The nurse prepares a sterile field, applies sterile gloves, cleans the wound by using sterile technique, and applies a new dressing. The NAP reports that the patient's temperature is 100.1° F. Which of the following are appropriate actions for the nurse to take? (Select all that apply.) A) In the change of shift report, inform the staff that the previous nurse broke sterile technique. B) Notify the physician of the assessment findings. C) Do not notify the physician, but continue with present orders, being careful not to break sterility. D) Monitor the patient's temperature every 4 hours or as ordered. E) Wear sterile gloves whenever providing care to the patient.

B D

A nursing instructor is reviewing sterile gloving with a group of students. Which statement, if made by a student, indicates correct understanding? (Select all that apply.) A) "Sterile gloves may replace hand hygiene if time is an issue." B) "Synthetic gloves may be used for individuals with a latex allergy." C) The powder in gloves prevents the passage of latex proteins. D) "Sterile gloves prevent the transmission of pathogenic microorganisms." E) "Sterile gloves should be used for procedures requiring medical asepsis."

B D

Which of the following outcomes are related to sterile gloving? (Select all that apply.) A) Blood pressure 120/80 B) Purulent drainage at treated site C) Weight 150 lbs D) WBC 15,000/mm3 E) Temperature 100.8° F (38.2° C) F) Pulse oximetry 99%

B D

A patient was diagnosed with a urinary tract infection. The patient has been drinking fruit juice and has increased his intake of fluids but has failed to take his antibiotic as prescribed because it caused gastric upset. Three days later, the patient presents to the clinic with fever, malaise, nausea, and vomiting. What might you suspect? A) The patient probably has the flu B) The patient may now have a systemic infection C) The patient is displaying signs of localized infection D) The patient is experiencing an allergic response to his medication

B) The patient may now have a systemic infection The patient is displaying generalized symptoms that indicate a systemic infection. Symptoms of a localized infection such as the urinary tract may include pain, burning from edematous membranes, and frequency of urination. Because the patient failed to be treated as prescribed, you might suspect that the patient's urinary tract infection has ascended to the kidney, producing more systemic symptoms of infection. Gastrointestinal (GI) disturbance may be a side effect of the antibiotic. An allergic response would be more likely suspected if the patient developed a rash, hives, urticaria, or difficulty breathing.

A patient is discharged home with a follow-up plan for continued weekly chemotherapy treatments on an outpatient basis. Three days later, the patient has increased weakness and refuses to eat. Concerned, the patient's family brings the patient to the hospital. It is a busy Friday night in the emergency room, and the patient sits in an overcrowded waiting room for 3 hours before being seen by a physician. An intravenous line (IV) is started to improve the patient's fluid and electrolyte status, and blood is drawn for further testing. A) Being discharged home B) Having chemotherapy C) Being malnourished D) Overcrowded health care facility E) IV insertion and blood sampling F) Resistance to antibiotics

B, C, D, E

The nurse is observing a newly hired NAP on the unit. Under which of the following circumstances should the nurse reinforce the importance of hand washing and disinfection, and provide further instruction to the NAP regarding hand hygiene? Select all that apply. A) The NAP consistently performs hand hygiene before providing patient care. B) The NAP turns off the water faucet with her hand. C) The NAP uses warm water to wet her hands and hot water to rinse them. D) The NAP rinses the wrists and hands, keeping the hands down and the elbows up. E) When using an antiseptic hand rub, the NAP rubs hands thoroughly until they are dry. F) The NAP removes her gloves after assisting the patient with toileting and answers the next call light.

B, C, F

The nursing instructor is asking the nursing students to share their knowledge regarding sterile gloving. Which statement, if made by a student, would require correction? A.) "Be sure to select appropriate size gloves. Gloves that are too small can tear more easily." B.) "Once sterile gloves are applied, the inside of the glove is still considered sterile." C.) "Be sure to select appropriate size gloves. Gloves that are too large can impede your ability to pick up items and perform your task." D.) "If you touch a nonsterile item with your sterile gloved hands, you should remove the gloves and obtain a new pair."

B.) "Once sterile gloves are applied, the inside of the glove is still considered sterile." The inside of sterile gloves is considered nonsterile once it touches the skin. Gloves that are too small may tear more easily and gloves that are too large may impeded your ability to pick up items and perform tasks. If you touch a nonsterile item with your sterile gloved hands, you should remove the now contaminated gloves and obtain a new pair.

A patient was hospitalized for surgical repair of a fractured hip. Her discharge was delayed because she developed a fever and respiratory distress. A chest x-ray confirmed left lower lobe pneumonia. Which type of infection best describes what this patient has? A.) An iatrogenic infection. B.) A healthcare-associated infection. C.) A systemic infection. D.) A local infection.

B.) A healthcare-associated infection. Healthcare-associated infections are those that develop as a result of a stay or visit in a healthcare facility and that were absent at the time of admission. An iatrogenic infection is a type of healthcare-associated infection resulting from a diagnostic or therapeutic procedure. An example of a systemic infection would be developing an infection at the site of her hip surgery (local) that then spread to her bloodstream (systemic). An example of a local infection would be the patient developing an infection at the site of her hip surgery (local).

A nurse is preparing a medication for subcutaneous administration. As the nurse recaps the needle using the scoop method, the nurse accidentally touches the table with the uncovered needle. What is the nurse's best action? A.) Discard the needle, syringe, and medication and start over. B.) Discard the needle and replace with a new one before administration. C.) Wipe the needle with an alcohol swab and recap for use. D.) Transfer the medication to a new syringe.

B.) Discard the needle and replace with a new one before administration. The sterile needle, having touched an unsterile surface is now considered contaminated and should be replaced with a new sterile needle. It is unnecessary to get a new syringe or medication as they are not contaminated. Wiping the needle is insufficient and could increase the risk of an accidental needlestick.

An elderly patient is admitted for back surgery. She is now retired but her previous occupation was as a registered nurse. She reports that she is also allergic to morphine and penicillin. She has a history of five laminectomies (back surgeries) resulting from scoliosis as a child. She has three children who visit her. She requires a cane to ambulate. Which factors would be considered high-risk factors for latex allergy? (Select all that apply.) A.) Her age. B.) History of multiple surgeries as a child. C.) Allergy to morphine and penicillin. D.) Occupation. E.) Use of a cane.

B.) History of multiple surgeries as a child. D.) Occupation. High-risk factors for a latex allergy include a history of spina bifida, congenital or urogenital defects, indwelling catheter, placement or repeated catheterizations, adverse reactions during surgery or dental procedures, use of condom catheters, multiple childhood surgeries, food allergies (papaya, avocado, banana, peach, kiwi, tomato), and high latex exposure (e.g., housekeepers, food handlers, health care workers). This patient has the risk factors of a history of multiple surgeries and her previous occupation as a registered nurse, where she was often in contact with latex. These factors placed her at high exposure to latex in her past. Her age, known allergies, and the use of a cane are unrelated to a risk for latex allergy.

A nurse is teaching infection control to a group of daycare workers. Which of the following should the nurse include in the instruction? A.) Washing hands with soap and water is the only effective means for stopping the spread of germs. B.) Immunizations help protect children from being susceptible hosts. C.) Large containers of hand sanitizer should be made available for use when there is visible soiling. D.) Toys are typically the reservoir of pathogen growth.

B.) Immunizations help protect children from being susceptible hosts. Receiving immunizations helps prevent being a susceptible host. Alcohol-based hand rubs are also effective for reducing microorganisms. Hand washing should be used when there is visible soiling. Smaller containers of hand sanitizer are preferred as microorganisms may begin to reside in larger containers. Toys are typically the vehicle for transmission in the chain of infection.

The nurse is preparing a sterile field. The nurse opens the sterile commercial kti by pulling the outermost flap towards his body, followed by opening the remainaing flaps. The nurse touches only the outer edge of the sterile field with his hands. The nurse adds sterile items to the sterile field by placing them on the field at an angle and never allowing the wrapper to touch the field. The nurse pours normal saline form a previously opened bottle in the patient's room into a sterile receptacle without splashing. Which action(s) in preparing a sterile field did the nurse perform incorrectly? (Select all that apply.) A.) The nurse correctly prepared the sterile fields. B.) Opening the outermost flap. C.) Touching the outer edge of the sterile field. D.) Adding sterile items to the field. E.) Pouring a sterile solution.

B.) Opening the outermost flap. E.) Pouring a sterile solution. The technique described for opening the sterile commercial kit was incorrect because it would cause the nurse to reach over the sterile field to open the other flaps. The nurse should not pour solution from a previously opened bottle, as sterility cannot be ensured. The outer 1-inch border is always considered contaminated, and it is appropriate for the nurse to have touched it. If the nurse had touched the inner portion of the sterile field, then sterility would be considered broken. The nurse added sterile items to the field correctly. By placing items onto the field at an angle, the arm never reaches over the field.

What is the best nursing practice to reduce the potential transmission of microorganisms within the health care setting? A.) Bagging all linen. B.) Performing hand hygiene. C.) Keeping catheter bags empty. D.) Wearing gloves.

B.) Performing hand hygiene. The best practice to prevent the transmission of microorganisms for all caregivers is performing hand hygiene before and after patient contact.

The nurse is reviewing with the surgical technician how to prepare a sterile field. Which of the following is incorrect and should not be included in the review? A.) Keep your intended work surface above waist level. B.) Place the drape so the top half of the drape is over the top half of the work surface. C.) You may grasp the outer one-inch border of the drape without wearing sterile gloves. D. You may grasp the outer one-inch border of the drape without wearing sterile gloves.

B.) Place the drape so the top half of the drape is over the top half of the work surface. The sterile drape should be placed in a direction so the bottom half of the drape is over the top half of the intended work surface. This prevents the nurse from reaching over the sterile drape once it is on the table surface. The sterile field should be at or above waist level. There is a 1-inch border around any sterile drape or wrap that is considered contaminated. To avoid reaching over the sterile field, sterile items should be placed at an angle onto the sterile field.

A nurse assists a patient with a Foley catheter to ambulate down the hall. The nurse holds the catheter bag above the level of the patient's bladder. What link in the chain of infection is the nurse breaking by doing so? A.) Portal of exit. B.) Portal of entry. C.) Reservoir. D.) Host susceptibility.

B.) Portal of entry. By not allowing the urine from the bedside drainage bag to re-enter the bladder, the nurse is breaking the chain of infection at the portal of entry. Emptying the bedside drainage bag may be an example of controlling the reservoir. Host susceptibility has to do with issues such as age, nutritional status, medical treatments, immunizations, etc.

You are washing your hands in a sink with hand faucets. You first turn on the water and regulate the temperature to warm. You increase the water pressure to create a strong spray. You wet your hands, apply 1 teaspoon (5 mL) of soap, and rub your hands together vigorously, creating lather. You interlace your fingers and rub the palms and backs of the hands with a circular motion at least five times each. You keep your hands positioned with fingertips down and rinse the hands and wrists thoroughly. You turn off the faucet. You dry your hands with a paper towel. Which step(s) are incorrect? (Select all that apply.) A.) The temperature of the water. B.) The force of the water. C.) The amount of soap used. D.) The technique used in lathering. E.) The position of your hands. F.) The method used to turn off the faucet.

B.) The force of the water. F.) The method used to turn off the faucet. The temperature of the water should be warm. Water that is too hot can cause injury to the hands, promoting cracks in the skin. The force of the water (a strong spray) is likely to cause splashing water against the uniform. Microorganisms travel and grow in moisture, so getting the uniform wet should be avoided. You should use 3 to 5 mL of detergent. You correctly lathered your hands. The position of your hands with fingertips down is correct. The faucet should be turned off with a new, clean paper towel, usually done after drying the hands.

The nurse is adding a dry sterile gauze dressing to the sterile field. The dressing bounces on the surface and lands on the outer 1-inch border of the sterile field. What action is appropriate at this time? A.) The nurse discards the entire sterile field, all items upon it, and starts over. B.) The nurse opens another sterile gauze dressing and adds it to the sterile field, but does not use the first one. C.) Once sterile gloves are applied, the nurse moves the sterile gauze dressing to the center of the sterile field. D.) The nurse continues with the procedure adding supplies to the sterile field and using each of them as needed.

B.) The nurse opens another sterile gauze dressing and adds it to the sterile field, but does not use the first one. The outer 1-inch border is considered contaminated; therefore, the gauze which landed upon the outer 1-inch border is also considered contaminated and should not be used. It is unnecessary to dispose of the entire sterile field.

To apply sterile gloves, To apply sterile gloves, the nurse applied the first glove on the right hand. Where should the nurse pick up the remaining glove? A.) At the top edge of the cuff. B.) Underneath the second glove's cuff. C.) Anywhere, because the entire glove is sterile. D.) You should pick it up with your ungloved hand.

B.) Underneath the second glove's cuff. The fingers of the gloved hand should be slid underneath the cuff of the second glove, avoiding touching any exposed areas. The cuff protects the gloved fingers. If the nurse picks up the glove at the top edge of the cuff, it will be very likely that the gloved hand will touch exposed skin at the wrist when pulling the glove over the fingers of the second hand. Picking up the second glove anywhere may make pulling the glove on over the fingers and hand more difficult and increase the risk of touching exposed skin with the sterile gloved hand. It would be very difficult to apply a glove with only one hand and highly likely to result in contamination.

The patient reports an allergy to latex. What alterations should be made in the patient's care? (Select all that apply.) A.) Have a nurse who is also allergic to latex provide the patient's care. B.) Use latex-free or synthetic gloves when gloves are necessary. C.) Avoid wearing gloves unless absolutely necessary and only for short periods of time. D.) Remove items that contain latex in the care of the patient. E.) Avoid use of alcohol-based hand rubs. F.) Determine whether syringes, IV tubing, catheters contain latex.

B.) Use latex-free or synthetic gloves when gloves are necessary. D.) Remove items that contain latex in the care of the patient. F.) Determine whether syringes, IV tubing, catheters contain latex. For individuals at high risk or with suspected sensitivity to latex, it is important to choose latex-free or synthetic gloves and to inspect the contents of all sterile kits for items that contain latex (e.g., an indwelling catheter).

The nurse is observing the NAP perform hand hygiene. Which of the following, if performed by the NAP, requires intervention by the nurse? (SATA) A) Washes her hands before and after removing clean gloves. B) Applies 3-5 mL of antimicrobial soap to hands wet with warm water. C) Takes the patient's bp and leaves the room to document D) Washes hands with plain soap and water when visibly dirty E) Puts the patient's socks on, then begins to feed the patient F) Moves the patient's IV pole by the bed and uses hand sanitizer G) Has an uncovered cut on the back of the nondominant hand

C) Takes the patient's bp and leaves the room to document E) Puts the patient's socks on, then begins to feed the patient G) Has an uncovered cut on the back of the nondominant hand Hand hygiene should be performed before and after direct contact with patients, such as taking a blood pressure or when moving from a contaminated body site to a clean body site during patient care. any open areas of the skin should be covered

The nurse is preparing an in-service on medical asepsis. Which of the following should be included in the presentation? (Select all that apply.) A) Use sterile gloves if anticipating contact with non-intact skin B) Artificial nails should be no loner than 0.625 cm (1/4 in) C) If worn, nail polish shouldn't be chipped D) Cough hygiene practices should be followed E) Gown and gloves are sufficient PPE for a splash risk F) Always know a patient's susceptibility to infection

C) if worn, nail polish shouldn't be chipped D) cough hygiene practices should be followed F) always know a patient's susceptibility to infection The nurse should be aware of a patient's susceptibility to infection. Age, nutritional status, stress, disease processes, and forms of medical therapy can place patients at risk for infection. If nail polish is worn, it should not be chipped. Health care workers should not wear artificial nail applications because of bacterial buildup. Use clean gloves when you anticipate contact with body fluids, nonintact skin, or mucous membranes when there is a risk of drainage. Patients, family caregivers, and health care workers follow cough hygiene practices and cover the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, use tissues to contain respiratory secretions, dispose of tissues in the waste receptacle, and wash their hands. Gown, gloves, and eye protection should be worn if there is a splash risk.

Which of the following are symptoms of a systemic infection? (Select all that apply.) A.) Redness. B.) Edema. C.) Fatigue. D.) Fever. E.) Pain or tenderness. F.) Lack of appetite.

C.) Fatigue. D.) Fever. F.) Lack of appetite. Systemic infections cause more generalized symptoms than local infection. They usually result in fever, fatigue, and malaise. Lymph nodes that drain the area of infection often become enlarged, swollen, and tender during palpation. Systemic infections commonly cause a loss of appetite, nausea, and vomiting. Redness and swelling caused by inflammation are signs of a local infection. Infected drainage at a local infection site may be yellow, green, or brown depending on the pathogen. The patient may complain of tightness and pain caused by edema. Gentle palpation of a localized infected area usually results in some degree of tenderness.

The nurse has prepared a sterile field and have added the necessary sterile items to the field. The nurse has applied sterile gloves and is waiting to assist the health care provider in performing a surgical procedure. The nurse keeps the sterile field in view and holds her hands down at her side, away from her clothing. While waiting, the nurse instructs the patient to avoid touching the sterile field and for the need to lie still. Which action made by the nurse is incorrect? A.) The patient teaching .B.) Failing to cover up the sterile field with a sterile drape while waiting. C.) Holding gloved hands at her side. D.) All actions are appropriate.

C.) Holding gloved hands at her side. You should keep your hands between waist and shoulder level. A sterile object (e.g., sterile gloves) held below waist level is contaminated. You should communicate with the patient, instructing the patient to avoid touching the work surface or equipment during the procedure and to remain still. This helps avoid accidental contamination of the sterile field and supplies. It is recommended to avoid placing a sterile drape over a sterile field because it is difficult to remove the drape without contamination of the field. It is better to prepare the field immediately before the procedure and keep it in view to prevent unobserved contamination.

The nurse is observing the NAP perform hand washing. During which step should the nurse intervene and provide further instruction? A.) The NAP pushes his wristwatch and long uniform sleeves above the wrists. Standing in front of the sink, the NAP keeps his hands and uniform away from the sink surface. B.) The NAP turns on the water and regulates the flow of water so that the temperature is warm and the force of the spray will not cause splashing. C.) The NAP wets his hands and wrists thoroughly under the running water and keeps his hands and forearms higher than the elbows during washing. D.) The NAP applies 3 to 5 mL of detergent and rubs the hands together vigorously, lathering thoroughly. The NAP performs hand hygiene for at least 15 seconds, interlacing the fingers and rubbing the palms and back of hands with a circular motion at least five times each. E.) The nurse rinses the hands and wrists thoroughly, dries the hands and uses a dry paper towel to turn off the hand faucet.

C.) The NAP wets his hands and wrists thoroughly under the running water and keeps his hands and forearms higher than the elbows during washing. The hands and forearms should be kept lower than the elbows during washing. Water flows from the least to the most contaminated area, rinsing microorganisms into the sink.

Which of the following is a correct description of glove removal? A.) You pull the gloves off by the fingertips and discard them in a proper receptacle. B.) You grasp the inside of one glove with the other gloved hand, pull the glove off, and discard it in a proper receptacle. The remaining glove is removed by placing the fingers of the bare hand outside the cuff, pulling the glove off, and discarding it in a proper receptacle. C.) You grasp the outside of one cuff with the other gloved hand and pull the glove off, turning it inside out, and place it in gloved hand. Take fingers of bare hand and tuck inside remaining glove cuff against the skin. Peel glove off inside out and over the previously removed glove. Discard both gloves in receptacle. D.) You slide the gloved fingers of the dominant hand under the inside cuff of the nondominant hand and pull the glove off and discard. Then you slide the fingers of the nondominant hand under the cuff of the dominant hand and pull the glove off and discard.

C.) You grasp the outside of one cuff with the other gloved hand and pull the glove off, turning it inside out, and place it in gloved hand. Take fingers of bare hand and tuck inside remaining glove cuff against the skin. Peel glove off inside out and over the previously removed glove. Discard both gloves in receptacle. You should grasp the outside of one cuff with the other gloved hand and pull the glove off, turning it inside out, and place it in gloved hand. Take fingers of bare hand and tuck inside remaining glove cuff against the skin. Peel glove off inside out and over the previously removed glove. Discard both gloves in receptacle. The outside of the glove should never touch the skin surface and the fingers should never touch a contaminated glove.

The nursing student is preparing a sterile field to insert a Foley (urinary) catheter in a patient. While adding the sterile catheter to the sterile field, it accidentally touches the patient's bedding. The student has added the catheter to the sterile field. What is the best action for the nursing student to take at this time? A) Remove the catheter from the field and obtain a new one. B) Apply water-soluble lubricant to the end of the catheter and continue with the procedure. C) Apply a sterile drape over the bedding. D) Discontinue field preparation, and start over with new equipment.

D

The nursing student is preparing to do a sterile dressing change. The patient has a reported allergy to latex. What should the nursing student do at this time? A) Check to see if patient's allergy is listed in the patient's medical record. B) If the patient denies allergy to strawberries or peanuts, go ahead with the procedure. C) Don't wear gloves at all. D) Change gloves to synthetic or nonlatex gloves.

D

You include performing hand hygiene in your nursing care to help break the chain of infection. At which link in the chain of infection is hand hygiene primarily effective? A) Pathogen B) Reservoir C) Portal of exit D) Mode of transmission E) Portal of entry D) Susceptible host

D

The nurse is applying sterile gloves. Which series of steps would require correction? A.) Perform hand hygiene. Examine glove package to determine if it is dry and intact. Open sterile gloves by carefully separating and peeling open the adhered package edges. Identify right and left glove. B.) With thumb and first two fingers of nondominant hand, grasp edge of the cuff of the glove for the dominant hand. Touch only inside surface of the glove and pull the glove over the dominant hand, carefully working the thumb and fingers into the correct spaces. Gently let go of the cuff while preventing it from rolling up the wrist. C.) Slide the fingers of the gloved hand underneath the second glove's cuff. Pull the glove over the fingers of the nondominant hand. Avoid touching exposed areas with the gloved hands. D.) Hold gloved hands at sides of body, below waist level, until beginning the sterile procedure.

D.) Hold gloved hands at sides of body, below waist level, until beginning the sterile procedure. Fingers of the gloved hands should be interlocked and held away from the body, above waist level, until beginning the procedure. Hand hygiene should be performed before applying gloves. The glove package should be examined because a torn or wet package is contaminated. The package is opened by separating and peeling the adhered package edges. With thumb and first two fingers of nondominant hand, grasp edge of the cuff of the glove for the dominant hand. Touch only inside surface of the glove and pull the glove over the dominant hand, carefully working the thumb and fingers into the correct spaces. Gently let go of the cuff while preventing it from rolling up the wrist. Slide the fingers of the gloved hand underneath the second glove's cuff. Pull the glove over the fingers of the nondominant hand. Avoid touching exposed areas with the gloved hands.

The nurse is preparing to set up a sterile field for a patient who is going to have a sterile dressing change. Which of the following assessment measures would be unnecessary at this time? A.) The nurse reviews documentation to see what supplies will be needed. B.) The nurse asks the patient to rate his pain on a pain scale. C.) The nurse asks the patient if he needs to use the bathroom. D.) The nurse asks the patient if he has ambulated in the hall today.

D.) The nurse asks the patient if he has ambulated in the hall today. Assessing the patient's mobility is unnecessary at this time. The nurse should anticipate the number and variety of supplies needed to avoid having to leave a sterile field to obtain more supplies. Premedication may be required if pain level is sufficiently severe. You should anticipate the patient's needs so that the patient can relax and avoid any unnecessary movement that might disrupt the procedure and/or the sterile field.

The nurse changes the dressing of your first patient with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus of the wound. The nurse discards the gloves and goes into the next room, where the nurse suctions a second patient's airway. According to the chain of infection, the mode of transmission is: A.) Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. B.) The first patient. C.) The first patient's wound. D.) The nurse. E.) The second patient's respiratory tract. F.) The second patient.

D.) The nurse. The nurse failed to perform hand hygiene after removing the gloves and before having contact with the second patient. The nurse's hands are the mode of transmission.

A nurse is obtaining a patient's medical history when he states, "I am HIV positive because I shared needles with a friend who is also HIV positive." The friend would be considered: A.) The susceptible host. B.) The vehicle or route of transmission. C.) The infectious agent. D.) The reservoir

D.) The reservoir. The friend would be the reservoir for pathogen growth. The needle is the mode of transmission. The HIV virus would be the infectious agent or pathogen. The patient is the susceptible host.

An NAP asks what an example would be of using standard precautions. The nurse is correct to respond: A.) Placing an "isolation precautions" sign on the patient's door to alert any visitors. B.) Wearing gloves and a mask whenever it is known a patient has a communicable illness. Incorrect C.) Collecting a sputum specimen to determine if an infection is present. D.) Wearing clean gloves when emptying a bedpan.

D.) Wearing clean gloves when emptying a bedpan. Standard precautions are used whenever there is a potential for contact with blood or body fluids. All patients should be treated as though they may be communicable, rather than only using precautions with patients who have identified illnesses. Emptying a bedpan requires standard precautions and the use of PPE as there is a potential for contact with body fluids.

The use of standard precautions is determined by the patient's likelihood of carrying a communicable illness. T/F

F

What is the most important and basic technique in preventing and controlling transmission of infection?

Hand hygiene

What should the nurse inspect on their hands before performing HH (Hand Hygiene)

Inspect surface of hands for breaks or cuts in skin or cuticles Inspect hands for visible soiling. Inspect condition of nails

Hand hygiene practices are ________ for health care workers. Optional Mandatory Suggested

Mandatory

________ reduces the number of microorganisms present Medical asepsis or Surgical asepsis

Medical Asepsis

Eliminates microorganisms from an area. Medical asepsis or Surgical asepsis

Surgical Asepsis

Surgical Asepsis

Surgical technique and aseptic practices maintain an area that is free from pathogenic organisms, serve to isolate an operative area from the unsterile environment, and maintain a sterile field for surgery and invasive procedures.

Standard precautions are used to protect you from potential contact with blood and body fluids. T/F

T

Risk factors for health care-acquired infection include:

Exposure to microorganisms within a health care facility A patient's length of stay Persons with chronic illness Persons with compromised immunity Multiple invasive treatments Treatment with multiple antibiotics for long periods of time

Standard precautions" means that you should use gloves, mask, eye protection, and a gown when a patient is placed on isolation. T/F

F