Question

The nurse observes a co-worker putting a contaminated dressing on the client's bedside table. Which action is most appropriate? A. Remove the contaminated dressing and clean the surface of the bedside table with a hypochlorite solution B. Wait until after the co-worker finishes and then request housekeeping to completely clean the room C. Remove the contaminated dressing and place it in the client's waste can D. Ask the co-worker why he placed the contaminated dressing on the client's bedside table

Short answer

Answer: A. Remove the contaminated dressing and clean the surface of the bedside table with a hypochlorite solution.

Step-by-step solution

Analyze each option

To find the most appropriate action, let's analyze each option and see how they contribute to the overall objective of preventing infection and maintaining a clean environment. A. Removing the contaminated dressing and cleaning the surface of the bedside table with a hypochlorite solution ensures that any potential bacteria or pathogens left by the contaminated dressing are eliminated. It also guarantees that the area where the patient might grab or touch is disinfected. B. Waiting until the co-worker finishes and then asking housekeeping to clean the room doesn't address the immediate risk of spreading infection. This option doesn't consider the well-being of the patient/client by allowing the contaminated dressing to remain there. C. Removing the contaminated dressing and placing it in the client's waste can seems like an acceptable solution, but it does not include cleaning the surface where the contamination took place. This leaves the potential for lingering pathogens on the bedside table, which could still infect the client or others. D. Asking the co-worker why they placed the contaminated dressing on the client's bedside table may seem like a good way to confront them, but it does not address the immediate issue of potential pathogens on the table and does not clean or remove the contamination.

Identify the most appropriate option

Based on the analysis in step 1, Option A (remove the contaminated dressing and clean the surface of the bedside table with a hypochlorite solution) is the most appropriate option as it addresses the immediate problem, ensures hygiene and cleanliness, and directly works toward minimizing the spread of infection.

Key concepts

nurse responsibilities

Nurse responsibilities are vital in ensuring the health and safety of patients. One of their primary roles is to maintain a sterile environment to prevent the spread of infections. This includes disposing of contaminated materials properly and cleaning surfaces where contamination might occur. For instance, removing a contaminated dressing and cleaning the affected area with a disinfectant such as a hypochlorite solution is an exemplar of exercising nurse responsibilities.
Nurses are also responsible for educating and guiding co-workers and other staff on proper hygiene practices. This involves being vigilant and taking immediate action when guidelines are not followed. It's critical to lead by example and ensure everyone adheres to high standards of cleanliness and infection control.

patient safety

Patient safety is a top priority in healthcare settings. It's essential to ensure that all procedures and practices adhere to the highest safety standards to protect patients from harm or infection. When a contaminated dressing is placed on a patient's bedside table, it poses a risk of infection, making it imperative to address the problem promptly.
Immediate action is necessary to remove contamination to prevent pathogens from spreading and affecting the patient's health. Regular training for healthcare professionals can keep them updated on best practices for maintaining a safe environment. This includes recognizing potential hazards and mitigating them swiftly, showing that patient safety goes beyond treatment to encompass a safe and hygienic environment.

contaminated materials

Contaminated materials, like used dressings or equipment, can harbor harmful bacteria and pathogens. These materials must be handled with utmost care to prevent the spread of infections within a healthcare setting. Proper disposal procedures are crucial, such as placing hazardous waste in designated bins rather than areas where patient contact is likely.
Besides disposal, it's essential to clean any surfaces that have come into contact with contaminants, like bedside tables or other furniture. Using appropriate disinfectants, such as a hypochlorite solution, helps eliminate any remaining pathogens. Understanding the proper handling of contaminated materials is a key component of effective infection control.

hygiene protocols

Hygiene protocols are structured practices designated to maintain a clean and healthy environment in healthcare settings. They cover various aspects of care, from hand washing and sanitizing to the correct handling and disposal of contaminated materials. Ensuring adherence to these protocols helps protect both patients and healthcare workers from potential infections.
It's important to conduct regular training sessions to keep everyone informed of the latest hygiene practices. Clear communication and consistent enforcement of protocols such as surface disinfection after exposure to contaminated materials, highlight the importance of hygiene in preventing the spread of infection. By enforcing these protocols diligently, the healthcare facility upholds its commitment to maintaining a healthy environment for all.