When caring for a single client during one shift, it is appropriate for the nurse to reuse only which of the following personal protective equipment?
Goggles
Gown
Surgical mask
Clean gloves
The Correct Answer is A
Correct use and reuse of PPE depends on the type of equipment, the level of contamination, and the nature of patient care. In some situations, certain PPE items may be reused for the same client during a single shift-but only if not visibly soiled, damaged, or contaminated.
Rationale for correct answer:
A. Goggles provide eye protection and are typically made of durable materials that can withstand cleaning and disinfection. When used for the same client, they may be reused during a shift as long as they are not visibly soiled or contaminated.
Rationale for incorrect answers:
B. Gowns, especially disposable ones, are single-use and should be removed after each client contact. Even with the same client, gowns can become contaminated with body fluids, increasing the risk of cross-contamination to the environment or nurse.
C. Surgical masks are single-use items. Prolonged use can lead to moisture buildup, reducing effectiveness. Masks should be discarded after removal or if they become damp or contaminated.
D. Clean gloves must be changed between tasks and after contact with potentially infectious material, even when caring for the same client. Reusing gloves increases the risk of spreading pathogens between clean and contaminated body sites.
Take home points:
- Goggles are the only PPE in this list that can be safely reused for the same client during a shift.
- Gloves, gowns, and surgical masks are considered single-use and should never be reused due to the high risk of cross-contamination.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Airborne precautions are infection control measures used to prevent the transmission of pathogens that remain suspended in the air for long periods and can travel over distances.
Rationale for correct answer:
C. An N95 mask (respirator) is specifically designed to filter at least 95% of airborne particles, making it the appropriate protection for airborne precautions.
Rationale for incorrect answers:
A. A standard surgical mask provides a barrier against large droplets but is not effective in protecting against small airborne particles. It is used for droplet precautions.
B. A face shield protects mucous membranes (eyes, nose, mouth) from splash or spray but does not provide respiratory protection. It should be used in addition to a mask or respirator.
D. None is needed: Airborne diseases are highly transmissible without proper PPE. Respiratory protection is essential when dealing with airborne infections. Without a respirator, both healthcare workers and other patients are at high risk of exposure.
Take home points:
- The N95 respirator is the standard protective equipment for airborne precautions.
- Surgical masks and face shields are useful for droplet and contact precautions.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C"]
Explanation
Clostridium difficile (C. difficile) is a spore-forming, toxin-producing bacterium that causes severe diarrhea and colitis, often following antibiotic use. It is a major cause of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) and is highly contagious through the fecal-oral route.
Rationale for correct answer:
A. “The organism is usually transmitted through the fecal-oral route.” C. difficile spreads when spores from feces are ingested, often via contaminated hands or surfaces. This statement shows an accurate understanding of the mode of transmission.
B. “Hands should always be cleaned with soap and water rather than the alcohol-based hand sanitizer.” Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are ineffective against C. difficile spores. Proper hand hygiene with soap and water is essential to physically remove the spores.
C. “Everyone coming into the room must wear a gown and gloves.” Contact Precautions for C. difficile require gloves and gowns to prevent contamination of clothing and skin with spores.
Rationale for incorrect answers:
D. “While I am in Contact Precautions, I cannot leave the room.” Patients on Contact precautions can leave the room for medically necessary procedures if they follow precautions (e.g., wearing a clean gown, hand hygiene).
E. “C. difficile dies quickly once outside the body.” C. difficile spores are very hardy and can survive on surfaces for weeks to months if not properly disinfected with sporicidal agents.
Take home points:
- C. difficile spreads through the fecal-oral route.
- C. difficile spores are resistant to alcohol-based hand sanitizers and many disinfectants.
- Thorough cleaning with sporicidal disinfectants is necessary.
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