A patient arrives in the emergency department after a ...

[lracut11]

A patient arrives in the emergency department after a bicycleautomobile accident with multiple dirty abrasions. Which product might be used initially to cleanse this patient's wounds?
 
  a. Hydrogen peroxide
  b. Isopropanol (isopropyl alcohol)
  c. Povidone iodine (Betadine)
  d. Soap and water

Question 2

A nurse is caring for a patient with gastroenteritis caused by Clostridium difficile. What action is most important for reducing the transmission of this disease?
 
  a. Disinfecting the bedpan with an antiseptic solution
  b. Using antibacterial hand soap when washing the hands
  c. Using an alcohol-based hand rub after each patient contact
  d. Wearing gloves while caring for the patient

[ciecieme]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: A
Hydrogen peroxide does not have good antiseptic properties, because the antimicrobial component is destroyed by catalase in tissues. It is useful initially because the frothing that occurs when catalase liberates oxygen loosens debris and facilitates cleansing of a dirty wound. Isopropanol is irritating to the skin. Povidone iodine is used on intact skin. Soap and water can be used, but hard scrubbing is necessary on a dirty abrasion and can be painful.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: B
All of these measures are appropriate for this patient; however, using an antibacterial hand soap is the most important, because only an antimicrobial soap is effective against a spore-forming bacterium, such as C. difficile.