A nurse is assisting with the planning of an in-service about updates in wound care for nursing staff. Which of the following sources should the nurse identify as providing the best evidence-based information?

Choice A rationale:

"I should use the cap during my menstrual cycle to prevent pregnancy." Rationale: This statement is incorrect. The cervical cap should be used only during sexual intercourse to prevent pregnancy, not during the menstrual cycle. It does not provide protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and should be used in conjunction with a spermicide for effectiveness.

Choice B rationale:

"I should avoid using spermicide with the cervical cap." Rationale: This statement is incorrect. To enhance the effectiveness of the cervical cap, it should be used with a spermicide. Spermicide helps immobilize and kill sperm, providing an additional barrier against pregnancy.

Choice C rationale:

"I need to have my provider check the size of the cap every 6 months." Rationale: This statement is incorrect. While it's important for the healthcare provider to properly fit the cervical cap initially, it does not require routine sizing checks every six months. However, clients should periodically check the cap for any signs of damage or deterioration.

Choice D rationale:

"I need to keep the cap in place for at least 6 hours after intercourse." Rationale: This is the correct statement. To ensure the effectiveness of the cervical cap, it should be left in place for at least six hours after intercourse. It provides a barrier that prevents sperm from reaching the cervix. However, it should not be left in place for more than 48 hours to reduce the risk of toxic shock syndrome.

Choice A rationale:

The nurse should include the instruction to wash hands with soap and water for 20 seconds in the teaching. This is a fundamental aspect of hand hygiene in healthcare settings. The rationale for this choice is that proper handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is the most effective way to remove dirt, debris, and transient microorganisms from the hands. It helps prevent the spread of infections, including those caused by viruses and bacteria.

Choice B rationale:

Wearing sterile gloves when in contact with body fluids is not directly related to hand hygiene education. While wearing gloves is an essential infection control practice, it is not a substitute for proper handwashing. Hand hygiene should be performed before donning gloves and after removing them.

Choice C rationale:

Using alcohol-based cleanser when hands are visibly soiled is not the best instruction for hand hygiene. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are effective when hands are not visibly soiled. In cases of visible soiling, handwashing with soap and water is recommended to physically remove dirt and contaminants.

Choice D rationale:

Artificial nails should not be worn when performing direct client care as they can harbor microorganisms and make it challenging to clean the hands adequately. The use of artificial nails can increase the risk of transmitting infections to patients, which is why they should be discouraged in healthcare settings.