A nurse accidentally sticks her hand with a syringe after administering an IM injection to a client. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

A. Wash the area of the puncture thoroughly with soap and water: The first action the nurse should take after a needlestick injury is to immediately wash the area with soap and water. This is crucial for minimizing the risk of infection and exposure to potentially infectious materials. Prompt cleaning of the puncture site is essential in reducing the risk of transmission of bloodborne pathogens.

B. Notify employee health services: While notifying employee health services is important for follow-up care and evaluation, it should be done after the initial wound care has been performed. Immediate action should focus on cleaning the injury first.

C. Complete an incident report: Completing an incident report is a necessary step for documentation and accountability in the healthcare setting. However, it should be done after the immediate first aid for the needlestick injury has been addressed.

D. Report the incident to the charge nurse: Reporting the incident to the charge nurse is important for ensuring appropriate follow-up and support, but the priority should be to address the injury first. The nurse should take care of the puncture wound before notifying others about the incident.

A. The hot water heater is set at 54°C (130° F): This temperature poses a risk of burns, especially for a client who may have impaired mobility or sensation due to a stroke. Water temperatures above 49°C (120°F) can cause burns, and 54°C (130°F) increases that risk significantly, making it a safety hazard.

B. Grab bars are installed in the bathroom: This is a safety feature rather than a hazard. Grab bars can help prevent falls and provide support for clients with mobility issues, making them an important aspect of home safety, particularly for someone who has experienced a stroke.

C. Area rugs are placed in the living room: Area rugs can create tripping hazards, especially for clients who may have difficulty with balance or mobility after a stroke. If not secured properly, they can lead to falls, making this a safety hazard.

D. Medications are stored in a clear bag: While storing medications in a clear bag may provide visibility, it does not ensure safety. If the bag is not clearly labeled or is accessible to children or pets, it can pose a risk of accidental ingestion or misuse, thus representing a safety hazard.

E. Dim lighting installed throughout the house: Dim lighting can increase the risk of falls, especially for clients with visual impairments or those who may not be able to navigate their environment safely after a stroke. Proper lighting is essential for ensuring safety and preventing accidents, making this a safety hazard.