AORN Infection Prevention and Control 2

Question 1

Which microorganism is most commonly associated with surgical site infections (SSIs) in perioperative patients?

Accepted Answer

Staphylococcus aureus

Answer

Staphylococcus aureus, including MRSA strains, is the most frequently isolated pathogen in surgical site infections.

Question 2

According to AORN guidelines, when should antimicrobial prophylaxis be administered before a surgical procedure?

Accepted Answer

Within 30-60 minutes before incision

Answer

AORN and SCIP guidelines recommend administering prophylactic antibiotics within 30-60 minutes before surgical incision to ensure adequate tissue levels.

Question 3

What is the primary purpose of a surgical safety checklist item addressing known allergies before incision?

Accepted Answer

To prevent adverse drug reactions including allergy-related infections

Answer

Verifying allergies before incision prevents administering contraindicated prophylactic agents that could cause reactions or require alternative (less effective) antibiotic choices.

Question 4

During an orthopedic joint replacement, the circulating nurse notices the surgical drape has a visible strike-through from blood. What is the correct action?

Accepted Answer

Replace the compromised drape to re-establish sterile field integrity

Answer

Strike-through moisture compromises the sterile barrier; the drape must be replaced to prevent contamination by wicking microorganisms from the non-sterile underside.

Question 5

Which personal protective equipment (PPE) is required when handling a patient with Clostridioides difficile (C. diff) in the perioperative setting?

Accepted Answer

Gown and gloves with contact precautions

Answer

C. difficile requires contact precautions — gown and gloves — because it spreads via the fecal-oral route and spores are not killed by alcohol-based hand rubs.

(AORN) Association of PeriOperative Registered Nurses Practice Test

(AORN) Association of PeriOperative Registered Nurses Practice Test

AORN Infection Prevention and Control 2