A hospital is auditing the number of catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs) in the hospital over the last two years. What is the primary reason for the hospital to perform this audit?

Choice A reason: This statement is appropriate because it clearly communicates the client’s condition (weakness) and the specific task (assist with ambulation to prevent falls). It provides the UAP with a clear purpose and safety goal. Preventing falls is a major priority in long-term care facilities, and UAPs are trained to assist with ambulation under supervision. The instruction is measurable and actionable, making it a safe and effective delegation.

Choice B reason: This statement is not appropriate because documenting vital signs is outside the scope of practice for a UAP. While UAPs can measure and record vital signs, the responsibility for documentation in the medical record belongs to licensed staff. Delegating documentation to a UAP risks inaccurate charting and violates professional standards. Therefore, this does not effectively communicate an appropriate assignment.

Choice C reason: This statement is incomplete and vague. While encouraging position changes is within the UAP’s scope, the instruction lacks specificity about frequency, timing, or which patients require repositioning. Effective delegation requires clear, measurable instructions. Without these details, the UAP may not understand the priority or urgency, making this statement insufficient for safe delegation.

Choice D reason: This statement is appropriate because it specifies the patient (Mrs. Brown), the task (check blood pressure), and the time frame (report back by 7:30 AM). It provides a clear, measurable assignment that is within the UAP’s scope of practice. UAPs are trained to measure vital signs and report findings to licensed staff. This instruction ensures accountability and timely communication, which supports safe patient care.

Choice A reason: This statement is correct because patients with C-Diff must be placed in contact isolation. C-Diff spores are highly contagious and can survive on surfaces for long periods. Contact isolation prevents transmission by requiring healthcare workers to use appropriate protective measures and limit exposure to other patients.

Choice B reason: This statement is correct because PPE should be discarded inside the patient’s room to prevent contamination of the hallway or other patient areas. Removing and disposing of PPE before leaving the room ensures that spores are contained and not spread throughout the facility.

Choice C reason: This statement indicates the student nurse needs further education. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are ineffective against C-Diff spores. The correct practice is to wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after patient contact. Soap and water physically remove spores from the hands, whereas alcohol does not kill them. This misunderstanding could lead to the spread of infection.

Choice D reason: This statement is correct because wearing gloves and gowns when providing care is essential for preventing transmission of C-Diff. Spores can contaminate clothing and skin, so protective barriers are necessary to reduce the risk of spreading infection to other patients or surfaces.