A phlebotomist should recognize that proper hand hygiene can result in which of the following?
A decrease in the incidence of health care-associated infections
An increase in the accuracy of laboratory results
A decrease in the rejection of laboratory specimens
An increase in the potential sources of pathogens
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A Reason:
Proper hand hygiene is one of the most effective measures to prevent the spread of infections within health care settings. By thoroughly cleaning hands, phlebotomists and other health care workers can significantly reduce the transmission of pathogens that can lead to health care-associated infections (HAIs). These infections are a major cause of morbidity and mortality among hospitalized patients and can be prevented by adhering to strict hand hygiene protocols.
Choice B Reason:
While hand hygiene is crucial for preventing contamination and infection, it does not directly increase the accuracy of laboratory results. The accuracy of laboratory results is more dependent on the proper collection, handling, and processing of specimens, as well as the precision of the testing equipment and methodologies used.
Choice C Reason:
Good hand hygiene can help decrease the rejection of laboratory specimens by preventing contamination. Contaminated specimens can lead to inaccurate results and may need to be recollected, which is inconvenient for the patient and can delay diagnosis and treatment. However, the primary outcome of proper hand hygiene is the prevention of HAIs, rather than the reduction of specimen rejection.
Choice D Reason:
Proper hand hygiene leads to a decrease, not an increase, in the potential sources of pathogens. By effectively removing germs from the hands, the risk of transmitting infectious agents is minimized. This is essential in a health care setting where patients may be vulnerable to infections due to weakened immune systems or open wounds.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason:
The lateral section of the plantar heel is the recommended site for capillary blood collection in infants, particularly those under 6 months of age. This area is preferred because it is sufficiently vascularized for blood collection and poses less risk of injury to bones and nerves compared to other areas.
Choice B reason:
The central area of the heel is not recommended for capillary blood collection in infants due to the higher risk of injury to the calcaneus (heel bone) and potential for calcaneal osteomyelitis, an infection of the bone.
Choice C reason:
The posterior curvature of the heel is also not an appropriate site for capillary blood collection in infants. This area has a higher likelihood of causing pain and injury, as well as being less accessible for a proper puncture technique.
Choice D reason:
The palmer surface of the distal phalanx (fingertip) is not a recommended site for capillary blood collection in infants under 1 year of age. The fingertips of infants are small and more prone to injury, and the procedure may be more painful compared to a heel stick.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Notifying the provider about the error is an important step, but it does not correct the error in the patient's chart. Communication with the provider ensures that they are aware of the mistake and can make informed decisions regarding patient care. However, the physical correction of the documentation is also necessary to maintain accurate medical records.
Choice B Reason:
Asking an administrator to erase the error is not a recommended practice. Erasing or using correction fluid can make the chart appear tampered with, which can have legal implications. It is essential that the original entry remains visible to preserve the integrity of the medical record.
Choice C Reason:
Striking a line through the error and initialing is the correct method for correcting a written error in a patient's chart¹². This approach allows the original entry to remain legible, which is crucial for legal and clinical reasons. It also shows that the correction was made by an authorized individual, as the initials indicate who made the change.
Choice D Reason:
Erasing the error and entering the correct information is not an acceptable practice for the same reasons as choice B. It is important not to remove or conceal the original entry, as this could be considered falsifying medical records.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.