A nurse is performing a dressing change for a client with a wound infected by Vancomycin-resistant *Enterococcus* (VRE). The removed gauze is heavily saturated with purulent drainage, which would release liquid if compressed. Which action demonstrates the correct protocol for handling this infectious material?
- Placing the saturated gauze directly into a red biohazard bag located inside the client's room.Answer
- BDiscarding the gauze in the standard bedside trash receptacle since it was generated in the immediate patient care area.
- CDouble-bagging the gauze routinely in two separate biohazard bags to ensure strict isolation during facility transport.
- DHanding the unbagged saturated gauze to the unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) for immediate transport to the dirty utility room.
Answer
The nurse should place the saturated gauze directly into a red biohazard bag located inside the client's room.
Dressings that are heavily saturated with blood or purulent materials, which could release liquid when compressed, meet the criteria for regulated medical waste. To maintain a safe environment and prevent cross-contamination, these items must be placed directly into a designated red biohazard bag at the point of use (inside the client's room).
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Disposal of Regulated Medical Waste and Infection Control