A charge nurse witnesses an assistive personnel (AP) failing to follow facility protocol when discarding contaminated linens. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

Choice A Reason:
A sufficient supply of personal protective equipment is appropriate. Bioterrorism events can involve the deliberate release of biological agents, such as bacteria, viruses, or toxins, with the intent to cause harm to individuals or populations. In such events, personal protective equipment (PPE) is critical for protecting healthcare workers and first responders from exposure to infectious agents and toxins. Adequate supplies of PPE, including masks, gloves, gowns, and eye protection, are essential to ensure the safety of healthcare workers and to prevent the spread of infection.
Choice B Reason:
A network for communication between staff members and families, is important for coordinating care and providing updates during a disaster, but it is not the highest priority when addressing immediate safety concerns related to a bioterrorism event.
Choice C Reason:
A mental health specialist on the response team, is important for providing support to individuals affected by the disaster, but it is not the highest priority during the initial response phase focused on safety and containment.
Choice D Reason:
A system for tracking client information, is important for maintaining continuity of care and tracking patient outcomes, but it is not the highest priority in the immediate response to a bioterrorism event when protecting healthcare workers and preventing further spread of infection is paramount.

Choice A Reason:
Withdraws the medication from the ampule using a subcutaneous needle is the correct answer. Medication from an ampule should be withdrawn using a filter needle or a needle specifically designed for ampule use, not a subcutaneous needle. Using the wrong type of needle can lead to contamination or injury to the nurse or the client.
Choice B Reason:
Breaks the top of the ampule using an antiseptic wipe is incorrect answer. Breaking the top of the ampule using an antiseptic wipe helps maintain sterility during the process. It is a standard practice to wipe the neck of the ampule with an antiseptic wipe before breaking it open to reduce the risk of contamination.
Choice C Reason:
Disposes of the ampule by placing it in a sharp’s container is incorrect answer. Disposing of the used ampule in a sharp’s container is the appropriate method for safe disposal of sharps to prevent needlestick injuries.
Choice D Reason:
Performs 3 checks of the medication before administration is incorrect answer. Performing three checks of the medication before administration is a standard safety practice to ensure accuracy and prevent medication errors. This includes checking the medication label against the medication administration record (MAR) or prescription, checking the medication against the MAR or prescription while preparing it, and checking the medication again before administering it to the client.