Hand Washing Procedures

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

What should be done if a client answers 'yes' during the initial screening regarding fall risks?

Document the response and monitor the client closely.

Conduct further assessment using a fall risk assessment tool. (correct)

Inform the client that no action is necessary.

Initiate immediate medications to prevent falls.

Which of the following is NOT a recognized mechanism for preventing falls in hospitalized clients?

Maintaining a clutter-free environment

Keeping hospital bed brakes locked

Using non-skid footwear

Providing sedative medications as needed (correct)

What should nursing staff do to enhance client safety regarding falls according to best practices?

Conduct fall screenings every day without considering facility policy.

Ensure that clients have adequate lighting and personal items within reach. (correct)

Increase client movement and encourage unassisted mobility.

Limit the use of call lights to reduce distractions for nursing staff.

How does hourly rounding by nursing staff affect client falls?

It is positively correlated with a reduction in client falls. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following actions would be least effective in the overall fall prevention strategy for hospitalized clients?

Providing a confusion-inducing environment. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary assessment technique for diagnosing orthostatic hypotension?

Measure blood pressure and pulse in sequence while the patient changes positions. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement accurately describes orthostatic hypotension?

It involves a specific decrease in blood pressure after a change in position. Signup and view all the answers

What vital sign changes are indicative of orthostatic hypotension?

A decrease in systolic pressure by at least 20 mm Hg or diastolic pressure by at least 10 mm Hg. Signup and view all the answers

Which patient-related factor increases the risk of developing orthostatic hypotension?

Recent blood loss or anemia. Signup and view all the answers

In which situation should orthostatic hypotension symptoms be evaluated?

Upon changing positions, like from lying to standing. Signup and view all the answers

What should be recorded when documenting orthostatic blood pressure measurements?

The patient's position along with the specific blood pressure readings. Signup and view all the answers

Which medication category is commonly associated with orthostatic hypotension?

Antihypertensives. Signup and view all the answers

What is an effective way to monitor for symptoms of orthostatic hypotension?

Tracking changes in pulse rate while measuring blood pressure. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a symptom of orthostatic hypotension?

Severe chest pain. Signup and view all the answers

Why is orthostatic hypotension considered a risk factor for falls in elderly patients?

It results in weakness and potential dizziness upon standing. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of using antiembolism stockings in a clinical setting?

To promote venous blood return and decrease DVT risk Signup and view all the answers

What assessment finding might indicate a possible deep vein thrombosis (DVT)?

Unilateral increase in calf circumference Signup and view all the answers

When assessing a walking patient using an assistive device, where should the caregiver stand?

On the patient's weaker side Signup and view all the answers

What symptoms may a patient with DVT experience?

Warm, cyanotic skin with pain and tenderness Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of measuring bilateral calf circumference daily?

To identify early signs of thrombosis Signup and view all the answers

Which group of patients is at increased risk for developing deep vein thrombosis?

Patients with limited mobility Signup and view all the answers

Which medication may be prescribed prophylactically to prevent DVT?

Anticoagulants like heparin or warfarin Signup and view all the answers

What should a caregiver do if a patient becomes weak or dizzy while walking?

Assist them to a chair or bed for rest Signup and view all the answers

What possible condition should be reported if a patient experiences orthostatic hypotension?

Changes in blood pressure upon standing Signup and view all the answers

For assessment of DVT in patients with a previous history, which body part should also be monitored regularly?

The thighs Signup and view all the answers

What should be done if a patient in restraint shows signs of cyanosis?

Remove the restraint immediately. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an appropriate action when caring for a patient requiring NPPV?

Ensure the patient can remove the mask if necessary. Signup and view all the answers

What type of gloves should be used for a patient with a known sensitivity to latex?

Synthetic nonlatex gloves. Signup and view all the answers

What should be monitored when using restraints on a patient?

Signs of skin irritation under the restraint. Signup and view all the answers

In what scenario is it essential to wear respiratory protection, such as an N95 respirator?

When caring for patients with known or suspected airborne diseases. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of proper use and disposal of PPE?

To protect healthcare workers from exposure to infectious agents. Signup and view all the answers

What is the correct procedure for hand hygiene after removing gloves?

Wash hands with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand rub. Signup and view all the answers

What is an essential requirement for placing patients requiring airborne isolation?

Place them in a negative-pressure airborne infection isolation room. Signup and view all the answers

If a patient shows signs of discomfort in a restrained extremity, what action should be taken?

Remove the restraint immediately. Signup and view all the answers

Which precaution should be taken when dealing with blood or bodily fluids?

Wear gloves whenever contact with blood or bodily fluids is likely. Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to keep your hands lower than your elbows during hand washing?

It minimizes the risk of contaminating hands with water. Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum duration recommended for washing hands thoroughly?

15 to 20 seconds Signup and view all the answers

What should be used to clean under the fingernails during hand washing?

A nail file or orangewood stick Signup and view all the answers

Which step is critical after washing hands to avoid recontaminating them?

Turning off the faucet with clean, dry paper towels Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if you find a cut or lesion on your hands before applying gloves?

Cover the cut with a sterile, impervious dressing. Signup and view all the answers

When should extra sterile gloves be placed in the procedure room?

Before beginning the sterile procedure. Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical action to take when inspecting gloves before use?

Look for any tears or punctures. Signup and view all the answers

What should be done first when preparing to apply gloves?

Examine the sterile glove package. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Hand Hygiene

Keep hands lower than elbows to prevent water from running down to the hands after washing.
Wash hands for a minimum of 15 to 20 seconds, ensuring thorough cleaning.
Clean back of fingers, between fingers, and under fingernails during handwashing.
Use a nail file or orangewood stick to clean under fingernails, particularly in the morning or after heavy soiling.
Rinse wrists, hands, and fingers well, allowing water to flow from wrists to fingertips.
Dry hands and wrists thoroughly with clean, dry paper towels, patting dry starting from fingertips.
Turn off faucets with clean paper towel to avoid contamination, discarding the used towel in a wastebasket.

Use of Gloves

Choose latex-free or synthetic gloves for patients with latex allergies or sensitivities.
Ensure glove packages are intact, dry, and not expired before use.
Perform surgical hand antisepsis using manufacturer-recommended methods before putting on gloves.
Inspect hands for cuts or lesions; cover any open lesions with sterile, transparent dressings.
Apply gloves carefully, taking care not to contaminate them during the process.

Assessing Subjective Patient Cues

Gather health history and reports from family, caregivers, and healthcare team members.
Example subjective cues include: "I have been nauseated for a week" or "My mom has been confused and forgetful."

Orthostatic Hypotension

Defined as a significant drop in blood pressure upon changing position (lying to sitting to standing).
Diagnosed when systolic pressure falls by at least 20 mm Hg or diastolic by 10 mm Hg within 2 to 5 minutes of standing.
Commonly occurs in patients who are dehydrated, anemic, or have experienced recent blood loss.
Symptoms include light-headedness, dizziness, or fainting, increasing fall risk in older adults with hypertension.
Assess by measuring blood pressure and pulse in supine, sitting, and standing positions within a 3-minute interval.

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

DVT occurs when blood clots form in the veins, mainly in the legs, usually due to pooled blood.
Symptoms may include swelling, warm or cyanotic skin, pain, and tenderness in the affected area.
Daily measurement of calf circumference can help detect early signs of DVT.
Patients at risk include those with limited mobility, especially postoperative patients.
Preventive measures include anticoagulation therapy and use of antiembolism stockings or sequential compression devices.

Fall Prevention Measures

Implement non-skid footwear and maintain beds in low positions to reduce fall risk.
Lock wheelchair brakes and keep a clutter-free environment with adequate lighting.
Position call lights and personal belongings within reach of patients.
Educate patients on fall prevention and familiarize them with the hospital environment.
Utilize hourly rounding by nursing staff and promptly respond to call lights to further decrease fall incidence.
Maintain sturdy handrails and ensure hospital beds are correctly adjusted during patient transfers.

Studying That Suits You

Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

Description

This quiz focuses on the essential steps of effective hand washing, emphasizing duration and thoroughness. Understand the correct techniques to ensure your hands are properly cleaned and safe from contaminants. Ideal for health education and hygiene training.