Proper Handwashing Techniques

Handwashing and Personal Protective Equipment

• Friction motion during handwashing should last at least 20 seconds.
• Personal protective equipment (PPE) does not include ordinary clothing.
• Wash hands with soap and water if they are not visibly soiled; otherwise, use alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

Assessing Apical Pulse

• Put on gown, mask, protective eyewear, and gloves before starting any procedure that involves a potential for exposure to fluids.
• The first step in assessing the apical pulse is to ensure proper hand hygiene.
• Assessing the patient's heart rate and rhythm should be done before the procedure.
• Place the stethoscope diaphragm at the left fifth intercostal space at the midclavicular line.
• Healthy adults typically breathe 12 to 20 times per minute.
• After counting the heartbeat for 1 minute, document the findings.

Respirations and Gastric Aspirate

• The normal range for respirations in healthy adults is 12 to 20 breaths per minute.
• Intestinal aspirate is usually described as yellow or green in color.
• Correct placement of a tube is usually verified through imaging or pH testing.

NG Tube and Medication Administration

• A tube is secured to the patient's nose with tape to prevent movement.
• After clamping the tube and removing the syringe, flushing with saline may be performed.
• Oral hygiene is usually provided to a patient with an NG tube every 2 to 4 hours.
• Oral medications are intended for absorption primarily in the small intestine.

Medication Documentation and Injection Techniques

• Documentation of medication administration should occur immediately to ensure accuracy and accountability.
• After discarding the needle and syringe, perform hand hygiene to prevent contamination.
• Circling the injection site with ink helps in identifying the area for future reference.
• Subcutaneous injections are administered just below the epidermis and dermis to ensure proper absorption.

Medication Refusal and Tissue Differences

• If a medication is refused or omitted, document the incident and follow facility policy for reporting.
• Administering drugs into adipose tissue allows for slower absorption compared to other tissue layers.
• D5W (5% dextrose in water) is unique as it can behave isotonic and hypotonic based on the patient's fluid status.

Fluid Solutions and Their Uses

• D5W should be avoided in clients at risk for increased intracranial pressure due to the risk of cellular swelling.
• Normal Saline Solution should be avoided in patients with heart failure or renal impairment.
• The main purpose of using D5W is to provide hydration and calories.
• Normal Saline Solution is often utilized to correct extracellular volume deficits.
• The osmolality and composition of Normal Saline Solution (0.9% NaCl) are designed to match serum osmolality, making it isotonic to blood.

Learn about the correct steps to wash hands effectively. From rinsing the soap bar to cleaning under fingernails, this quiz covers important handwashing procedures to maintain hygiene.