A nurse is using personal protective equipment (PPE) before entering the room of a patient with diarrhea and vomiting who is being treated for an intestinal infection.
The nurse most likely needs to use which combination of PPE?

Choice A rationale

Dressings are typically sterilized using steam or other standard methods, not ethylene oxide gas, which is reserved for materials that are sensitive to heat and moisture.

Choice B rationale

Surgical instruments are commonly sterilized using steam autoclaving, which is highly effective and efficient.

Choice C rationale

Floors and walls do not require sterilization with ethylene oxide gas; standard cleaning and disinfection methods are sufficient.

Choice D rationale

Heat-sensitive items require ethylene oxide gas sterilization because it is effective at low temperatures without damaging delicate materials.

Choice A rationale

Requiring the use of a facemask by nursing staff is not sufficient alone as a nursing intervention for a surgical incision and IV line access. Comprehensive infection control measures are needed.

Choice B rationale

Maintaining "clean" technique is important, but "sterile" technique would be more appropriate for wound dressing changes and IV site care to prevent infection.

Choice C rationale

Assessing and documenting skin condition around the incision and IV site at each shift is correct because it helps in early identification of signs of infection, ensuring timely intervention.

Choice D rationale

Limiting visitors to immediate family may help reduce infection exposure, but it does not address the primary nursing intervention for monitoring and caring for the surgical incision and IV site.