Safety and Infection Control Flashcards

A patient with diabetes uses a reusable lancet device. What is the MOST important safety instruction regarding lancet use?

Answer: Never share the lancing device with anyone, even if the lancet is changed

Lancing devices must never be shared between individuals because internal parts can become contaminated with blood even when the lancet is changed.

Which of the following best describes the proper technique for disposing of a used insulin syringe in a household setting?

Answer: Place uncapped in a puncture-resistant sharps container before disposal

Used syringes should be placed in an FDA-cleared sharps container immediately after use to prevent needlestick injuries.

A diabetes educator is teaching a community class. What is the primary reason that lancets should not be reused multiple times by the same patient?

Answer: Repeated use dulls the tip, increasing pain and risk of skin trauma and infection

Lancet tips become dull and barbed with reuse, causing more tissue trauma and increasing infection risk at the puncture site.

When educating a patient about continuous glucose monitor (CGM) sensor insertion, which infection prevention step is MOST critical?

Answer: Cleaning the insertion site with an alcohol wipe and allowing it to fully dry before insertion

The site must be cleansed with alcohol and allowed to fully dry before insertion to maximize disinfection and prevent skin irritation.

A CDCES is reviewing safe sharps disposal regulations. Which federal agency provides guidance on community sharps disposal programs?

Answer: Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

The FDA provides guidance on safe sharps disposal for the general public, including information on FDA-cleared sharps containers and community disposal options.

A patient with type 2 diabetes develops a blister on the plantar surface of the foot after wearing new shoes. What is the MOST appropriate initial guidance?

Answer: Do not pop the blister; cover it with a sterile dressing and seek medical evaluation promptly

Blisters in patients with diabetes should not be ruptured at home; they require prompt medical evaluation due to the risk of infection and poor healing.

Which practice BEST reduces the risk of lipohypertrophy-related infection at insulin injection sites?

Answer: Rotating injection sites within and between regions systematically

Systematic site rotation prevents lipohypertrophy, which impairs insulin absorption and increases local infection risk from repeated trauma.