Examkin

Question

Difficulty: MediumStandard and Transmission-Based Precautions

A practical nurse observes an unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) preparing to enter the room of a client on Contact Precautions for a *Clostridioides difficile* infection. The UAP washes their hands with soap and water, dons a pair of clean gloves, and then picks up a disposable isolation gown to put on over their uniform. What is the most appropriate action for the practical nurse to take?

  1. Stop the UAP and explain that the isolation gown must be put on before the gloves.Answer
  2. B
    Advise the UAP to secure the sleeves of the isolation gown tightly over the cuffs of the gloves.
  3. C
    Instruct the UAP to apply a standard surgical mask before tying the gown at the waist.
  4. D
    Take over the client's care, as UAPs are not permitted to enter rooms under Contact Precautions.

Answer

The nurse must stop the UAP and correct the donning sequence, ensuring the isolation gown is put on before the gloves.
According to standard infection control protocols, the isolation gown must always be donned before the gloves. This specific sequence is critical because the gloves must be pulled securely over the cuffs of the isolation gown to create a continuous barrier. If the gown is put on after the gloves, the wrists may be exposed to infectious agents, compromising safety.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the UAP's sequence of donning personal protective equipment (PPE).
The UAP is attempting to put on gloves before the isolation gown.
Identifying the error in real-time is the first step in preventing an infection control breach.
2
Recall the standard CDC guidelines for donning PPE.
The correct sequence is: 1. Gown, 2. Mask/Respirator, 3. Goggles/Face Shield, 4. Gloves.
This standardized sequence ensures that all exposed skin and clothing are adequately covered.
3
Evaluate the clinical consequence of the UAP's error.
If gloves are put on first, the wrists may remain exposed because the gloves cannot properly seal over the gown's cuffs.
Exposed wrists increase the risk of transmitting spores from the environment to the UAP.
4
Determine the appropriate nursing intervention.
The practical nurse must immediately intervene, halt the UAP, and correct the PPE sequence.
Nurses are responsible for monitoring infection control practices and guiding assistive personnel in maintaining a safe care environment.

Key Concept

PPE Donning Sequence and Infection Control Intervention
Rate this question

Topics

Standard and Transmission-Based Precautions

More questions from this topic