Infection Control Flashcards
7 cards from real CRNI practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Infection Control flashcards as text
A CRNI is preparing to change a central venous catheter (CVC) dressing. Which disinfectant is preferred for skin antisepsis at the insertion site?
Answer: Chlorhexidine gluconate >0.5% with alcohol
Chlorhexidine gluconate >0.5% in alcohol is the preferred antiseptic for CVC site care per INS and CDC guidelines due to its superior residual activity.
A patient on immunosuppressive therapy develops a fever of 38.6°C within 30 minutes of starting an IV infusion. The nurse suspects infusion-related sepsis. What is the FIRST action?
Answer: Discontinue the infusion and notify the provider
The infusion must be stopped immediately to halt potential bacteremic exposure, and the provider notified; the suspect infusate and tubing should be saved for culture.
When inserting a peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC), which of the following practices is required for maximal barrier precautions?
Answer: Sterile gloves, gown, mask, cap, and large sterile drape
Maximal sterile barrier precautions require cap, mask, sterile gown, sterile gloves, and a large sterile drape to cover the entire patient during insertion.
A nurse notes that the antimicrobial-impregnated central line has been in place for 7 days. According to evidence-based practice, what should guide the decision to replace the catheter?
Answer: Clinical indication such as signs of infection or malfunction, not scheduled replacement
Evidence-based guidelines recommend against routine scheduled replacement; catheters should be changed only when clinically indicated to reduce unnecessary risk.
Which of the following organisms is most commonly associated with catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSIs) linked to hub contamination?
Answer: Coagulase-negative Staphylococci
Coagulase-negative staphylococci, particularly S. epidermidis, are the most common CRBSI pathogens due to their biofilm formation on catheter surfaces and hubs.
A nurse is using a needleless connector to access a central line. What is the recommended technique to reduce intraluminal contamination?
Answer: Scrub the hub with alcohol for 5–15 seconds and allow to dry
The 'scrub the hub' technique using 70% alcohol or chlorhexidine-alcohol for 5–15 seconds with friction, followed by drying, effectively reduces microbial contamination of needleless connectors.
A patient with a PICC line is being discharged home with long-term IV antibiotics. Which instruction is MOST important to prevent infection at the insertion site?
Answer: Report redness, swelling, warmth, or drainage at the site immediately
Early recognition and reporting of local infection signs allows prompt intervention to prevent CRBSI in home infusion patients.