CNA Proper Hand Hygiene and PPE Usage

Question 1

What is the minimum duration for scrubbing hands during hand hygiene?

Accepted Answer

20 seconds.

Answer

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends scrubbing hands for at least 20 seconds during handwashing with soap and water. This duration ensures sufficient time to effectively dislodge and remove transient microorganisms from the skin surface. A shorter duration may not be adequate for proper infection control.

Question 2

When should a CNA change gloves during patient care?

Accepted Answer

When moving between tasks or procedures.

Answer

Gloves should be changed when moving between different tasks or procedures, or when moving from a contaminated body site to a clean body site on the same patient. This practice prevents cross-contamination of microorganisms from one area to another. Changing gloves frequently is a critical step in maintaining aseptic technique and preventing the spread of infection.

Question 3

What is the first step when donning personal protective equipment (PPE)?

Accepted Answer

Perform hand hygiene.

Answer

The first step in donning any personal protective equipment (PPE) is always to perform hand hygiene. This ensures that the hands are clean before touching and applying the PPE, preventing contamination of the clean equipment. Clean hands are fundamental to effective infection control practices and the safe use of PPE.

Question 4

What is the primary purpose of wearing a face mask in a healthcare setting?

Accepted Answer

To protect against the spread of droplets.

Answer

The primary purpose of wearing a face mask in a healthcare setting is to protect against the spread of respiratory droplets. When a person coughs, sneezes, or talks, they can expel droplets containing pathogens. A mask acts as a barrier, preventing these droplets from reaching others or from being inhaled by the wearer, thus reducing the transmission of droplet-borne infections.

Question 5

How should a CNA remove a soiled gown after patient care?

Accepted Answer

Fold it inward and dispose of it.

Answer

When removing a soiled gown, it should be carefully folded inward so that the contaminated outer surface is contained. This minimizes the spread of pathogens to the environment or the healthcare worker's hands and clothing. The gown should then be immediately disposed of in the appropriate waste receptacle to maintain infection control.

CNA Practice Test

CNA Practice Test

CNA Proper Hand Hygiene and PPE Usage