An adult client is admitted to the infectious disease unit with severe diarrhea caused by Clostridioides difficile. Which of the following actions should the practical nurse take? Select all that apply.
- Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after removing personal protective equipment.Answer
- Put on a disposable gown and clean gloves prior to entering the client's room.Answer
- CApply an alcohol-based hand sanitizer immediately after exiting the room.
- DWear a fit-tested N95 respirator when delivering the client's meal tray.
- Dedicate reusable medical equipment, such as a stethoscope, exclusively to this client.Answer
Answer
The correct actions include washing hands with soap and water, wearing a gown and gloves before entering the room, and dedicating medical equipment to the client.
Clients with Clostridioides difficile require strict contact precautions to prevent the spread of infectious spores. This mandates donning a gown and gloves before room entry and dedicating reusable equipment to the client. Because these spores are resistant to alcohol, hand hygiene must be performed using soap, water, and physical friction.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Contact precautions and proper hand hygiene for spore-forming bacteria.