CNA Practice Infection Control and Prevention Flashcards

Which of the following best describes the difference between 'cleaning' and 'disinfecting' a surface?

Answer: Cleaning removes debris and reduces organisms; disinfecting kills most pathogens

Cleaning physically removes dirt and reduces microbial load, while disinfecting uses chemicals to kill most pathogens on surfaces.

A CNA is assigned to care for a resident with chickenpox (varicella). Which type of precautions are required?

Answer: Airborne and contact precautions

Varicella spreads via both the airborne route (small particles) and direct contact with lesions, requiring both airborne and contact precautions.

The CNA is performing perineal care on a female resident. Which direction should the CNA clean?

Answer: Front to back

Cleaning front to back (urethra to anus) prevents fecal bacteria from contaminating the urinary tract and reducing the risk of UTI.

Which of the following is an example of a 'reservoir' in the chain of infection?

Answer: An infected wound on a resident

A reservoir is the habitat where a pathogen lives and multiplies; an infected wound harbors the pathogen.

A CNA observes a coworker re-capping a used needle with two hands. What should the CNA do?

Answer: Report the unsafe practice to the charge nurse

Two-handed recapping increases the risk of needlestick injuries and violates safety policy; the CNA must report this unsafe practice.

After removing soiled gloves, the CNA notices a small tear in one glove. What should the CNA do?

Answer: Wash hands thoroughly, assess skin integrity, and report to the charge nurse if skin was compromised

A torn glove may expose the hand to pathogens; hand hygiene is required and any skin compromise should be reported for evaluation.

Which piece of PPE protects mucous membranes from splashes of body fluids?

Answer: Face shield or goggles

Face shields and goggles protect the eyes, nose, and mouth mucous membranes from splashes or sprays of blood and body fluids.