The nurse is teaching a client about the use of syringes and needles for home administration of medications. Which action by the client indicates an understanding of standard precautions?
Washes hands before handling the needle and syringe.
Wears gloves to dispose of the needle and syringe.
Dons a face mask before administering the medication.
Removes the needle before discarding used syringes.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: Hand hygiene is the foundation of Standard Precautions and the single most effective action to prevent transmission of infectious agents. Performing handwashing or using an alcohol‑based hand rub immediately before preparing or administering an injection removes transient microorganisms acquired from touching surfaces and protects both the client and the environment from contamination
Choice B reason: While wearing gloves during handling and disposal of contaminated sharps is recommended whenever there is potential contact with blood or body fluids, it is a secondary barrier. Reliance on gloves alone is insufficient because gloves can have micro‑perforations and are removed after use, making hand hygiene before and after glove use the priority
Choice C reason: Donning a face mask before administering the medication is not a necessary action to indicate an understanding of standard precautions. A face mask is only required when there is a risk of droplet transmission of infectious agents, such as when caring for a client with respiratory infections. It is not needed for self-administration of medications, unless the medication is aerosolized or nebulized.
Choice D reason: Removing the needle before discarding used syringes is not a safe action to indicate an understanding of standard precautions. It increases the risk of needle-stick injuries and contamination. The needle and syringe should be disposed of as a single unit in a puncture-resistant container.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Paper mask and gown are considered regulated medical waste, which means they are contaminated with blood, body fluids, or microorganisms that pose a potential risk of infection¹. Therefore, they should be placed in a designated biohazard bag before they are removed from the room and treated according to the facility's policies and procedures².
Choice B reason: The nurse's stethoscope is not a disposable item and does not need to be placed in a biohazard bag. However, it should be cleaned and disinfected after each use to prevent cross-contamination³.
Choice C reason: Bed linens are not classified as regulated medical waste unless they are soaked with blood or body fluids¹. They can be placed in a regular laundry bag and washed according to the facility's guidelines.
Choice D reason: Sputum specimen is a type of microbiology laboratory waste, which is regulated medical waste¹. However, it should not be placed in a biohazard bag, but in a leak-proof, puncture-resistant container that is labeled with a biohazard symbol. This ensures the safe transport and handling of the specimen.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Serum potassium and sodium levels are not relevant to the assessment of the wound infection. They are electrolytes that regulate fluid balance, nerve conduction, and muscle contraction. They may be affected by dehydration, renal failure, or diuretics.
Choice B reason: Neutrophil count is the most relevant laboratory value to note before reporting the wound infection. Neutrophils are white blood cells that fight bacterial infections and inflammation. A high neutrophil count indicates an acute infection or inflammation, while a low neutrophil count indicates a compromised immune system or a chronic infection.
Choice C reason: Blood pH level is not relevant to the assessment of the wound infection. It is a measure of the acidity or alkalinity of the blood. It may be affected by respiratory or metabolic disorders, such as acidosis or alkalosis.
Choice D reason: Hematocrit is not relevant to the assessment of the wound infection. It is the percentage of red blood cells in the blood. It may be affected by anemia, dehydration, or polycythemia.
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