ATI RN
Infection Prevention and Control NCLEX Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
15 persons were infected with Salmonella at a picnic where 75 ate potato salad. What was the attack rate of salmonella among those who ate potato salad?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D) 20%. The attack rate is calculated by dividing the number of people who got sick by the total number of people exposed to the potential source of infection and then multiplying by 100 to get a percentage. In this case, 15 people were infected out of 75 who ate potato salad, resulting in an attack rate of 20%. Option A) 15% is incorrect because the attack rate is not calculated based on the number of infected individuals alone, but rather the proportion of infected individuals among those exposed. Option B) 0.2 is incorrect as it is a decimal representation and not a percentage. Attack rates are typically expressed as percentages to provide a clearer understanding of the risk. Option C) 18% is incorrect because the correct calculation based on the given data results in an attack rate of 20%, not 18%. Understanding how to calculate attack rates is crucial in infection prevention and control to assess the spread of diseases and determine the effectiveness of control measures. It is essential for healthcare professionals to grasp these concepts to prevent and manage infectious disease outbreaks effectively.
Question 2 of 5
A form of interactive training is often preferred among adult learners. However, in some situations a lecture may represent the best approach. In which of the following situations should the IP consider a lecture?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In the context of infection prevention and control, conducting a lecture when reviewing accreditation survey results for the infection prevention program with managers (Option A) is the most appropriate approach for several reasons. Firstly, discussing survey results with managers requires a structured format to ensure clear communication of important information and guidelines. A lecture allows for a formal presentation where complex data can be explained thoroughly, ensuring all participants receive the same information simultaneously. Options B, C, and D are not the most suitable for a lecture format. Addressing inaccurate data entry by a health data analyst (Option B) may require a more interactive approach to identify and correct errors collaboratively. In situations like observing unsafe disposal of contaminated syringes in the ER (Option C) or discovering employees with influenza-like symptoms providing patient care (Option D), immediate action and hands-on training or correction are more critical than a lecture. From an educational perspective, understanding when to utilize different teaching methods based on the specific learning needs and objectives is crucial. Lectures are effective for delivering content to a large group, providing essential information, and promoting consistency in understanding complex topics. Interactive training may be preferred for fostering engagement, critical thinking, and skill development. This rationale highlights the importance of aligning teaching methods with the learning context to optimize knowledge retention and application in infection prevention and control practices.
Question 3 of 5
An employee scored below the minimal acceptable level on the annual review of IP competencies. The employee has attempted to pass the written test three times and has now been referred to IP for additional help. What should the IP evaluate first?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: In this scenario, the IP should first evaluate the employee's literacy and reading ability (Option D). This is crucial in order to assess the individual's capacity to comprehend and effectively engage with the educational materials provided for infection prevention and control. Understanding the written content is fundamental to passing the written test and improving competencies in this area. Option A, the employee's motivation to learn or review material, is important but addressing literacy issues takes precedence. Without the ability to comprehend the material due to literacy challenges, motivation alone may not yield successful outcomes. Option B, the length of time the individual has been employed in healthcare, is not directly relevant to the immediate need to address literacy and reading ability to improve IP competencies. Option C, the employee's anxiety regarding test-taking, while a valid consideration, should come after addressing literacy issues as anxiety may be exacerbated by the inability to understand the material due to literacy challenges. In an educational context, recognizing and addressing foundational literacy needs is essential for building a strong knowledge base in infection prevention and control, which is crucial for providing safe and effective patient care. By focusing on improving reading ability, the IP can better support the employee in achieving competency in this area.
Question 4 of 5
The abstract in a research study must include:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C) The intent or objective of the study. In an abstract of a research study, it is crucial to clearly and succinctly state the purpose or aim of the study. This helps readers quickly understand what the research is about and what the researchers are trying to investigate or achieve. Including the intent or objective in the abstract provides a concise summary of the study's focus. Options A, B, and D are incorrect because they are not typically included in the abstract of a research study. A review of the literature is usually found in the introduction section of the full research paper, providing background information on the topic. A biographical profile of the principal investigator is not necessary in the abstract and can be found in the acknowledgments or author information sections. Conflict of interest disclosures are important but are usually detailed in a separate section of the research paper. Educationally, understanding the components of a research abstract is essential for healthcare professionals, including nurses preparing for the NCLEX exam. This knowledge helps in critically appraising research studies, interpreting their findings, and applying evidence-based practice in healthcare settings. Nurses need to be able to quickly grasp the key aspects of a study from its abstract to determine its relevance and applicability to their practice.
Question 5 of 5
According to AAMI ST79, which of the following are among the recommendations of mechanical cleaning equipment in order to verify adequate cleaning? 1. Verification should be carried out monthly 2. Verification should be carried out upon installation 3. Verification should be carried out after major repairs 4. Verification should be when changing cleaning chemistry
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D) 2, 3, 4. According to AAMI ST79 (Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation), mechanical cleaning equipment should be verified for adequate cleaning after major repairs, when changing cleaning chemistry, and upon installation. This verification is crucial to ensure the effectiveness of the cleaning process and maintain adherence to infection prevention and control standards. Option A) 1, 2, 3, 4 is incorrect because monthly verification is not specifically mentioned in AAMI ST79 as a requirement for mechanical cleaning equipment. Option B) 1, 2, 4 is incorrect because the recommendation to verify after major repairs (3) is missing. Option C) 1, 2, 3 is incorrect because the recommendation to verify when changing cleaning chemistry (4) is missing. Understanding and following these recommendations is vital for healthcare professionals, especially those involved in infection prevention and control. Proper cleaning and disinfection of medical equipment are essential to prevent healthcare-associated infections and ensure patient safety. Adherence to industry standards like AAMI ST79 is critical in maintaining a safe healthcare environment.