The practical nurse (PN) is providing instructions to the unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) preparing to give a total bed bath to an immobile client who has a continuous feeding via gastrostomy tube (GT).

Which instruction is most important for the PN to emphasize?

Choice A rationale:

Hydrogen peroxide. Hydrogen peroxide is not the recommended solution for disinfecting surfaces following a blood spill. While it can be used to clean wounds and may have some disinfectant properties, it is not as effective as bleach in destroying bloodborne pathogens.

Choice B rationale:

Bleach. Bleach is the appropriate choice for disinfecting surfaces contaminated with blood. A 10% bleach solution (1 part bleach to 9 parts water) is effective at killing bloodborne pathogens such as HIV and hepatitis B and C viruses. It should be used in healthcare settings to ensure proper disinfection after a blood spill.

Choice C rationale:

Isopropyl alcohol. Isopropyl alcohol is an effective disinfectant for some purposes, but it may not be as effective as bleach against bloodborne pathogens. It is commonly used for cleaning and disinfecting skin before medical procedures but is not the recommended choice for disinfecting surfaces following a blood spill.

Choice D rationale:

Chlorhexidine. Chlorhexidine is an antiseptic solution often used for skin disinfection before surgical procedures or invasive medical interventions. It is not typically used for disinfecting surfaces contaminated with blood.

The correct answer is choiced. “Limit the number of choices for the client.”

Choice A rationale:

Using written signs to assist the client with locating the bathroom can be helpful, but it is not the most critical strategy for managing Alzheimer’s disease.

Choice B rationale:

Providing a stimulating environment for the client can sometimes lead to overstimulation, which may increase confusion and agitation in clients with Alzheimer’s disease.

Choice C rationale:

Using confrontation to manage the client’s behavior is not recommended as it can lead to increased agitation and aggression.

Choice D rationale:

Limiting the number of choices for the client helps reduce confusion and anxiety, making it easier for them to make decisions and feel more in control.