what is the most important step that the nurse can take to prevent the transmission of microorganisms in the hospital setting
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NCLEX-RN

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1. What is the most important step that healthcare personnel can take to prevent the transmission of microorganisms in the hospital setting?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The most crucial step in preventing the transmission of microorganisms in the hospital setting is proper hand hygiene. Healthcare personnel should wash their hands thoroughly before and after each patient contact to reduce the risk of spreading infections. While cleaning the stethoscope with an alcohol swab between patients is recommended, it is secondary to hand hygiene. Wearing protective eyewear at all times is not necessary for routine patient care unless specifically indicated, and wearing gloves only when in direct contact with patients is important but not as critical as proper handwashing. Therefore, the correct answer is to wash hands before and after contact with each patient.

2. The nurse is teaching a student nurse about the different types of thermometers. When teaching the student about the advantages of the tympanic membrane thermometer (TMT), which statement would the nurse include?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is "The rapid measurement of the TMT is beneficial for uncooperative younger children." TMT is ideal for young children who may not cooperate for oral temperatures or fear rectal temperatures. However, using TMT for newborn infants is not recommended due to inconsistencies in results. Measuring temperature with TMT is not necessarily cost-effective. The most accurate method for measuring core temperature is through rectal temperatures. TMT may not be the preferred method for patients with otitis media due to potential inaccuracies caused by fluid behind the tympanic membrane.

3. You are working the 8 am to 4 pm shift. You begin to vomit at 3 pm and you do not think that you are able to continue working. You decide to immediately go home without notifying your RN supervisor. You have ________________.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Patient abandonment is a serious violation that can lead to disciplinary action and immediate termination of employment. It is defined as leaving patients without proper consent from the supervisor. In this scenario, leaving work without notifying the RN supervisor and potentially leaving patients unattended is considered patient abandonment, as it compromises patient safety and care. Choices A and B are incorrect because having sick time or finishing work does not justify leaving without proper protocol. Choice D is incorrect as the scenario does not indicate abuse or neglect towards the patients.

4. When is the best time for the nurse to attempt to elicit the Moro reflex during an infant examination?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The Moro reflex, also known as the startle reflex, is best elicited at the end of the examination because it can cause the infant to cry. This reflex is triggered by a sudden change in position or loud noise, and it involves the infant's arms extending and then coming back together as if embracing. By eliciting this reflex at the end of the examination, the nurse can observe the infant's response and ensure that the examination is completed without unnecessary distress. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because the Moro reflex is typically elicited at the end of the examination to avoid disrupting the assessment process and causing unnecessary discomfort to the infant.

5. Who should be members of a patient care conference?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In a patient care conference, it is essential to have all members of the healthcare team present to ensure comprehensive and coordinated care. Including the patient or resident, along with their family members if desired, is crucial as they are the focus of care. Choice A is incorrect because it excludes other important members of the healthcare team. Choice B is partially correct as it includes the patient and/or family members but does not encompass the entire healthcare team. Choice C is too broad and does not specifically address the inclusion of the patient or resident. The correct answer, Choice D, includes all healthcare team members and the patient/resident, ensuring a holistic approach to patient-centered care.

Similar Questions

Which of the following lists the recommended sequence for removing soiled personal protective equipment when preparing to leave a patient's room?
The client often sighs and says in a monotone voice, 'I'm never going to get over this.' When encouraged to participate in care, the client says, 'I don't have the energy.' These cues are suggestive of which nursing diagnoses? Select all that apply.
Which of the following questions is considered open-ended?
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Patients have a right to ______________.

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