Exhibits

Choose:

Choice A reason:

A Foley catheter was reinserted after surgery for urinary retention is a significant factor because indwelling urinary catheters are a common source of Healthcare-Associated Infections (HAIs), specifically catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs). The presence of a Foley catheter provides a direct pathway for bacteria to enter the bladder, increasing the risk of infection. Regular assessment of the need for the catheter and maintaining strict aseptic technique during insertion and care are essential to prevent CAUTIs. The CDC emphasizes the importance of removing catheters as soon as they are no longer necessary to reduce the risk of infection.

Choice B reason:

Retired mechanic is not directly relevant to the risk of HAIs. While Mr. Johnson’s previous occupation might provide some context about his lifestyle and potential exposure to certain risks, it does not have a direct impact on his current risk for developing HAIs. The focus should be on his current medical condition and the procedures he has undergone.

Choice C reason:

Age is a critical factor in the risk of developing HAIs. Older adults, like Mr. Johnson, have a higher risk of infections due to age-related changes in the immune system, comorbidities, and decreased physiological reserves. Age can also affect the healing process and the body’s ability to fight off infections. Therefore, Mr. Johnson’s age is an important consideration in his risk assessment for HAIs. Older patients often require more vigilant monitoring and preventive measures to reduce the risk of infections.

Choice D reason:

History of diabetes significantly increases the risk of HAIs. Diabetes can impair the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off infections. It also affects wound healing, increasing the risk of surgical site infections (SSIs). Patients with diabetes need careful monitoring and management to prevent complications related to infections. Proper glycemic control is crucial in reducing the risk of HAIs in diabetic patients.

Choice E reason:

Incision is a direct risk factor for surgical site infections (SSIs). The midline incision from Mr. Johnson’s abdominal surgery is a potential entry point for bacteria, which can lead to infection. Proper wound care, including keeping the incision clean and dry, monitoring for signs of infection, and timely dressing changes, is crucial to prevent SSIs. Surgical site infections are among the most common HAIs and require diligent preventive measures.

Choice F reason:

Gender is not a primary factor in the risk of HAIs. While some studies suggest that certain infections may have different prevalence rates between genders, it is not a significant factor compared to the other considerations such as the presence of a catheter, age, diabetes, and surgical incision. The focus should be on the more direct risk factors that have a substantial impact on the likelihood of developing HAIs.

Choice A: Properly cleaning all reusable equipment once each day

While cleaning reusable equipment is important, it should be done after each use, not just once a day. This ensures that any potential pathogens are removed before the equipment is used on another patient, thereby preventing cross-contamination.

Choice B: Appropriately using PPE

This is a correct answer. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as gloves, masks, gowns, and eye protection are essential in preventing the spread of infection. Proper use of PPE helps protect both healthcare workers and patients from exposure to infectious agents.

Choice C: Ensuring all environmental surfaces are properly cleaned, disinfected, and maintained

This is another correct answer. Regular cleaning and disinfection of environmental surfaces, such as bed rails, doorknobs, and medical equipment, are crucial in preventing the spread of infections. Maintaining a clean environment reduces the risk of healthcare-associated infections.

Choice D: Avoiding all invasive interventions

Avoiding invasive interventions is not a practical or realistic approach to preventing infections. While minimizing unnecessary invasive procedures can reduce infection risk, many invasive interventions are necessary for patient care. Instead, proper aseptic techniques should be used during these procedures to prevent infections.

Choice E: Performing hand washing or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer before and after patient contact or procedures

This is also a correct answer. Hand hygiene is one of the most effective measures to prevent the spread of infections. Washing hands with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer before and after patient contact or procedures significantly reduces the transmission of pathogens.