Question

Difficulty: MediumStandard and Transmission-Based Precautions

A practical nurse is gathering supplies to provide hygiene care for a client who is on droplet precautions due to a suspected Haemophilus influenzae type b infection. An unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) will assist with the bed bath. Which actions indicate correct adherence to safety and infection control principles? (Select all that apply.)

  1. Fasten a surgical mask securely over the nose and mouth prior to entering the client's room.Answer
  2. B
    Instruct the UAP to evaluate the client's skin integrity during the bed bath.
  3. Dedicate reusable equipment, such as a thermometer and stethoscope, for exclusive use by this client.Answer
  4. D
    Apply clean gloves before donning a fluid-resistant isolation gown when preparing for the bath.
  5. Place a standard medical mask on the client if transport to another department is necessary.Answer
  6. F
    Remove the isolation gown and gloves in the hallway immediately after exiting the client's room.

Answer

The correct actions include wearing a surgical mask prior to entry, dedicating reusable equipment exclusively to the client, and placing a standard mask on the client if transport is required.
Droplet precautions dictate that healthcare personnel must wear a surgical mask upon entry. Dedicating reusable equipment to the client minimizes cross-contamination, and placing a mask on the client during transport contains their respiratory secretions, protecting the facility at large.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the required isolation precautions based on the client's diagnosis.
Haemophilus influenzae type b requires droplet precautions in addition to standard precautions.
The pathogen is transmitted through large respiratory droplets generated by coughing, sneezing, or talking.
2
Determine the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and proper sequencing.
A surgical mask is required upon entry. Because a bed bath is being provided, a gown and gloves are also necessary. PPE must be donned properly (gown, then mask, then gloves) and doffed inside the room before exiting.
Correct PPE usage and sequencing prevent staff exposure and cross-contamination of the facility environment.
3
Evaluate the appropriateness of delegating tasks to the UAP during care.
The UAP can safely assist with the physical task of bathing but cannot evaluate skin integrity.
Nursing assessment and evaluation are strictly within the licensed nurse's scope of practice.

Key Concept

Droplet Precautions, PPE Sequencing, and Safe Delegation
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