The nurse is helping the health care provider perform a sterile procedure at the bedside.

Halfway through the procedure, the nurse believes the health care provider has contaminated the sterile field.

The nurse should:

Choice A rationale

Organisms that cause the infection refer to the pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, or fungi. In the context of pneumococcal pneumonia, the organism is Streptococcus pneumoniae. The lungs do not serve as the organisms; they are the site of infection.

Choice B rationale

Transmission of the disease involves the spread of pathogens from one individual to another. Pneumococcal pneumonia is transmitted via respiratory droplets, not the lungs serving as the transmission medium.

Choice C rationale

Mode of transfer refers to the mechanisms by which an infection spreads, such as direct contact, airborne, or vector-borne. The lungs are not a mode of transfer; they are the site of infection.

Choice D rationale

Reservoirs are places where pathogens live, grow, and multiply. In the case of pneumococcal pneumonia, the lungs act as a reservoir where the bacteria can grow and cause infection.

Choice A rationale

Washing hands when visibly soiled removes dirt, debris, and pathogens, effectively reducing the risk of infection.

Choice B rationale

Washing hands after using the restroom is a critical practice to prevent the spread of gastrointestinal pathogens.

Choice C rationale

Washing hands before meal preparation prevents the transmission of pathogens to food, protecting against foodborne illnesses.

Choice D rationale

Hands that appear clean may still harbor pathogens. Effective hand hygiene includes washing hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water to remove invisible pathogens. .