The nurse is preparing to provide wound care for her patient. She ...

[ereecah]

The nurse is preparing to provide wound care for her patient. She realizes that the most effective way to decrease the bacterial count on her hands is to wash her hands using:
 
  a. soap and water only.
  b. a nonalcohol antiseptic alone.
  c. a 50 alcohol-based antiseptic alone.
  d. a 60 to 95 alcohol-based antiseptic alone.

Question 2

When the following concepts are compared, which is most important in maintaining a safe environment by following aseptic principles?
 
  a. Performing a surgical hand scrub
  b. Applying a sterile gown
  c. Recognizing the importance of following aseptic principles
  d. Applying a mask and protective eyewear

[lgoldst9]

Answer to Question 1

D
Studies have shown that antiseptics containing 60 to 95 alcohol alone, or 50 to 95 alcohol, when combined with other selected antiseptics (e.g., chlorhexidine), lower bacterial counts on the skin more effectively than do other antiseptics without alcohol. An alcohol-based hand rub may be used as a preoperative hand scrub after an initial 15-second prewash with plain soap and water.

Answer to Question 2

C
A nurse in an operating room follows a series of steps toward sterile technique, such as applying a mask, protective eyewear, and a cap; performing a surgical hand scrub; and applying a sterile gown and sterile gloves. In contrast, a nurse who is performing a sterile dressing change at a patient's bedside or in the home setting may only wash the hands and apply sterile gloves. Regardless of the procedures followed or the setting, the nurse needs to recognize the importance of following strict aseptic principles.

[ereecah]

Excellent

[amcvicar]

TYSM