A practical nurse is planning care for a client who is on contact precautions due to a Methicillin-resistant *Staphylococcus aureus* (MRSA) infection. Which instruction is most appropriate for the nurse to give the unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) assigned to assist this client?
- Keep the reusable blood pressure cuff and thermometer inside the client's room.Answer
- BEvaluate the client's skin around the infected area during the morning bath.
- CRemove your gown first, followed by your gloves, before leaving the room.
- DApply a surgical mask if you anticipate being within three feet of the client.
Answer
Instruct the UAP to keep dedicated reusable equipment, such as a blood pressure cuff and thermometer, inside the client's room.
The most appropriate instruction is to use dedicated equipment. Contact precautions require that the client has their own dedicated patient-care equipment (such as thermometers, blood pressure cuffs, and stethoscopes) to prevent the transmission of infectious agents like MRSA to other clients or surfaces. This equipment remains in the room until the client is discharged or the precautions are discontinued.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Contact Precautions and Dedicated Equipment