Infection Control & Prevention Flashcards

A client with measles is admitted. Which staff member should be assigned to care for the client?

Answer: A nurse with documented immunity to measles

Only staff with documented immunity should care for clients with measles, which requires airborne precautions.

Which method is considered the gold standard for sterilizing heat-stable surgical instruments in a hospital?

Answer: Steam under pressure (autoclave)

Autoclaving with pressurized steam destroys all microorganisms including spores.

What is the correct way to dispose of a used needle and syringe?

Answer: Place immediately in a puncture-resistant sharps container without recapping

Needles are not recapped and are discarded promptly at point of use into a puncture-resistant container.

A client with active tuberculosis is being transported to radiology. What should the nurse do?

Answer: Have the client wear a surgical mask during transport

The client wears a surgical mask to contain respiratory secretions; staff wear N95 respirators as needed.

Which finding indicates the host is in the prodromal stage of infection?

Answer: Nonspecific symptoms such as malaise and low-grade fever

The prodromal stage includes vague early symptoms before the illness stage.

Which practice helps prevent surgical site infection before surgery?

Answer: Using clippers if hair removal is needed and administering prophylactic antibiotics within 60 minutes before incision

Clippers avoid microabrasions and timely antibiotics maintain tissue levels at incision.

Which individual is at greatest risk for acquiring a healthcare-associated infection?

Answer: An older adult in the ICU with a urinary catheter, central line, and malnutrition

Invasive devices, advanced age, and poor nutrition substantially increase infection risk.