The nurse is discharging the client who required contact-based ...

[segrsyd]

The nurse is discharging the client who required contact-based transmission precautions during the hospital stay. Which action by the nurse is the most appropriate for the nondisposable items left in the client's room?
 
  1. Telling the cleaning staff to double-bag the equipment
  2. Sterilizing the equipment before removing it from the room
  3. Placing contaminated items in an impermeable bag and sending to be decontaminated
  4. Placing contaminated items in a paper bag and taking to the dirty utility room

Question 2

Which intervention will the nurse use to break the chain of infection by eliminating the reservoir?
 
  1. Ensure that all antibiotics are taken properly and only when needed, to avoid creation of antibiotic-resistant microorganisms.
  2. Avoid coughing or sneezing without covering the mouth.
  3. Use sterile technique for invasive procedures.
  4. Change dressings and bandages when they are soiled or wet.

[joneynes]

Answer to Question 1

Correct Answer: 3

The equipment should be placed in an impermeable bag that will not allow pathogens to leak and sent to the proper area for decontamination. This should not be delegated to the cleaning staff in most facilities, because they are not trained in transmission prevention. It would not be possible to sterilize equipment before removing it from the room, because rooms are not equipped with all the specialized machines required to sterilize all equipment. Placing contaminated items in a paper bag would not prevent leakage of pathogens from the bag.

Answer to Question 2

Correct Answer: 4

Moist dressings create ideal reservoirs for the growth of microorganisms. Ensuring antibiotics are taken properly breaks the chain by reducing growth of new etiologic agents. Covering the mouth when coughing or sneezing reduces the portal of exit, whereas following sterile technique for invasive procedures reduces the portal of entry.