Question

The nursing assistant is cleaning the floor where a urinary spill has occurred. Which action by the nursing assistant indicates understanding of standard precautions? The nursing assistant obtains a solution of: A. Water B. Soap C. Bleach D. Peroxide

Short answer

Answer: C. Bleach

Step-by-step solution

Eliminate Incorrect Options

We can start by eliminating options that are not suitable for cleaning a urinary spill. Water (A) is not enough to eliminate any potential contamination nor kill any pathogens. Soap (B) is useful for cleaning surfaces but might not be strong enough to handle infections or contamination. Peroxide (D) can have a disinfecting effect but can be hazardous to the skin and may damage some surfaces.

Analyze the Correct Solution

Bleach (C) is known for its disinfecting properties and is commonly used in healthcare settings for cleaning and disinfecting various surfaces. Using a bleach solution can help eliminate any potential infections or contamination resulting from the spill.

Choose the Correct Answer

Based on the analysis of each option, the correct answer is C. Bleach. The nursing assistant demonstrates an understanding of standard precautions by obtaining a bleach solution to clean the floor where the urinary spill occurred.

Key concepts

Standard Precautions

Standard precautions are essential measures used by healthcare providers, like nursing assistants, to prevent the spread of infections. These precautions help ensure a safe and clean environment for both the healthcare workers and the patients they care for. The core principle of standard precautions is to treat every bodily fluid as potentially infectious.
Implementing standard precautions involves several key actions, including:

• Wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, masks, and gowns when exposure to bodily fluids is possible.


• Proper hand hygiene, including regular washing and sanitizing of hands.


• Safe practices for handling and disposing of needles and sharp instruments.


• Cleaning and disinfecting surfaces and equipment effectively.

In the scenario given, using a bleach solution reflects standard precautions as it ensures infectious materials in bodily fluids like urine are neutralized. This safeguard reduces the risk of infection transmission in healthcare environments.

Infection Control

Infection control refers to practices and procedures that prevent the spread of infections within healthcare settings. It is vital for protecting patients and healthcare workers from various infectious diseases. The approach includes not just handling spills but also encompasses a range of methods to reduce infection risks.
These methods include:

• Isolation protocols for patients with contagious diseases.


• Regular training of healthcare workers on new infection control strategies.


• Implementation of standard and transmission-based precautions.


• Continuous surveillance and monitoring of infection rates within the facility to identify and mitigate outbreaks.

Using effective cleaning solutions like bleach in response to body fluid spills is part of a broader infection control strategy that helps maintain a healthy and infection-free environment.

Healthcare Cleaning Protocols

Healthcare cleaning protocols are structured procedures and guidelines for maintaining cleanliness and preventing infections in medical facilities. These protocols are based on evidence and best practices to ensure an effective cleaning process.
Crucial components of these protocols generally include:

• Routine cleaning schedules to address high-touch surfaces like doorknobs, bed rails, and countertops.


• Usage of appropriate cleaning agents, such as disinfectants like bleach, tailored for different types of contaminants and surfaces.


• Compliance with manufacturer instructions for dilution and application of cleaning products to ensure their effectiveness.


• Regular training sessions for staff involved in cleaning duties to keep them informed on the latest protocols and safety measures.

By following these protocols diligently, healthcare facilities can significantly decrease the likelihood of infections spreading, thus safeguarding both patients and healthcare workers.