The nurse encourages the 84-year-old patient who is recovering from a hip replacement to:

Choice A rationale

Lowering the mask below the chin for reuse is incorrect because it can cause contamination. Masks should be discarded after each use to prevent the spread of infectious agents.

Choice B rationale

Removing the mask first before other PPE is incorrect because it can lead to self-contamination. The mask should be removed after the gown and gloves, following proper PPE removal protocols.

Choice C rationale

Discarding the mask only if it is wet and otherwise folding and storing it for reuse is incorrect. Masks should not be reused once they have been worn as they may harbor infectious agents.

Choice D rationale

Untying the bottom ties first, then the top, and disposing of the mask without touching it is correct because it prevents contamination of the hands and ensures safe disposal.

Choice A rationale

Keeping sterile gloved hands in sight, away from unsterile objects, maintains sterility by reducing the risk of accidental contamination.

Choice B rationale

Opening the wrapper of a sterile pack toward the body, starting with the proximal flap, increases the risk of contaminating the contents of the sterile pack, as the wrapper may touch unsterile clothing.

Choice C rationale

Avoiding coughing, sneezing, or talking near a sterile field is essential as respiratory droplets can introduce contaminants and compromise the sterility.

Choice D rationale

Avoiding reaching across or above a sterile field with bare hands or arms prevents contamination from skin cells or clothing particles that might fall into the field.